Richard Keys has reopened talk about Pep Guardiola’s future after claiming the Manchester City manager could leave the club as early as this week, following City’s 2–0 Premier League defeat to Manchester United.
City were beaten at Old Trafford in a result that increased focus on their recent form, with Guardiola’s side failing to score and struggling to impose themselves for much of the match. The loss left them behind in the title race and added to a run of uneven results that has raised questions about their consistency.
After the match, Keys, speaking on beIN Sports, suggested the fallout could be more dramatic than many expect. The veteran broadcaster claimed there was genuine uncertainty surrounding Guardiola’s short-term future, going as far as saying the Spaniard could walk away from the job.
He told viewers not to dismiss the idea of an immediate departure, saying, “Do not rule out him leaving this week! If he goes this week, Maresca will be in charge for the match against Wolves.”
Guardiola signed a contract extension two years ago that runs until 2027, and there has been no official indication from City that a change is being considered. However, talk of a sudden departure has been driven by the availability of Enzo Maresca, who recently left his role at Chelsea and knows City’s structure well after previously working under Guardiola.
Maresca spent time on City’s coaching staff during their treble winning season and is known for similar tactical ideas. That link has led many to see him as the natural option if Guardiola were to walk away.
City are due to face Wolves in their next league match, with preparations for that game already under way. At the time of reporting, club sources have given no indication of any change to the coaching setup.
