Guardiola Set for First Etihad Return Since Leaving Man City

Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is set to return to the Etihad Stadium next week for the first time since leaving the club at the end of last season.

Guardiola is expected to attend City’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, October 14, marking his first visit to the stadium since ending his 10-year spell in charge.

The Spaniard left Manchester City after a hugely successful decade that brought six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups and the club’s first Champions League trophy.

Guardiola’s return comes at a significant moment for City following an independent commission’s findings concerning the club’s long-running Premier League financial case. City were found guilty of multiple breaches and have appealed the decision, while the club continues to deny wrongdoing.

Following the verdict, Guardiola publicly expressed his continued support for the club’s ownership, leadership, players and supporters.

He also remains connected to the City Football Group as a global ambassador after stepping down as manager.

The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach is expected to watch the match from the stands as Enzo Maresca begins a new era at Manchester City.

The visit will also come just days after City’s Premier League trip to Liverpool, with the PSG fixture representing their first home match since the commission’s verdict.

Guardiola’s return is expected to attract considerable attention from supporters, given his long association with the club and the success achieved during his tenure.

During his time at City, Guardiola established the club as a dominant force in English football and guided the team to its historic treble in the 2022-23 season.

His final season ended without the Premier League title, with Arsenal winning the championship before Guardiola departed.

The 55-year-old has since stepped away from day-to-day management and has been taking a break from football.

His return to the Etihad next week will therefore mark the beginning of a new chapter in his relationship with the club, this time as a former manager and supporter watching from the stands.