Man City gearing up for 'significant summer of change'
· Yahoo Sports
Manchester City's world fell apart in the space of 24 hours as they surrendered the Premier League title - following on from the bombshell news of manager Pep Guardiola's impending departure.
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The headlines every City fan feared about the Spaniard's future broke on Monday night, before the side's 1-1 draw at Bournemouth on Tuesday night.
While Guardiola insists he will make his decision after talks with chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, the expectation is for him to end his trophy-laden and decade-long tenure at the club, with Enzo Maresca poised to be his successor.
Guardiola told Sky Sports: "The first person I have to talk to is my chairman because we both decided that when we finish the season, we will sit and we will talk. It is as simple as that. After that, we will take the decision."
The 55-year-old, who has led City to Carabao Cup and FA Cup success this season, added: "I have one more year of my contract. I will not tell you [a decision] here because I have to talk with my chairman, my players and my staff.
"When we play for the FA Cup, for Champions League qualification, for the Premier League title, there is just one thing in my mind and focus: trying to bring the team to the highest point."
All eyes were on Guardiola at Vitality Stadium for City's must-win game, though.
He was greeted by the flashing cameras of 22 photographers as he entered the dugout before kick-off, while one City fan raised a bedsheet with 'Pep Stay' scribbled on it.
"One more year, one more year, Guardiola," was chanted during the game but, by the end, the manager was the first to make a hasty exit down the tunnel.
The shock developments, should they officially be confirmed by the club, mean it is now shaping up to be a significant summer of change at the club this summer.
A domestic cup double was secured this season, but the title has eluded the club for a second straight campaign - something which has not happened before in Guardiola's distinguished managerial career, which has included spells at Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
And, if it does transpire to be his final week at Etihad Stadium, he will no doubt depart with a tinge of regret. City had the title in their own hands just 15 days ago, but their trip to Everton proved to be the turning point.
Now, Sunday's game against Aston Villa will now be viewed as an emotional farewell to a man who has brought so much joy and success to supporters over the past 10 years.