I'm Hearing Whispers: Pep Guardiola Poised to Quit Man City After 'Disastrous' Twist

Speculation is rife that Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola could dramatically exit the club imminently following a humiliating 2-0 defeat to Manchester United in the derby, with pundit Richard Keys claiming he's hearing "whispers" of a departure as early as this week.[1][2][3][5]

The loss at Old Trafford, marked by second-half goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu under Michael Carrick's United, left Guardiola visibly downcast and City seven points behind leaders Arsenal in second place.[1][2][5] Keys, on beIN Sports, boldly predicted: "Nailed on, [he's] gone at the end of the season. But do not rule out him leaving this week. If this happens, remember where you heard it first."[2][5] He suggested recently sacked Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca could take over immediately for the Wolves clash on January 24, while Vincent Kompany from Bayern Munich might return as summer replacement.[1][3][5]

Betting odds on Guardiola being the next Premier League manager to leave have slashed to 2/1, amid a wave of sackings including Maresca and Ruben Amorim.[3] Despite a contract until 2027, renewed in November 2024, Guardiola has faced persistent questions about his future, snapping in post-match interviews: "I'm here. What will happen? Who knows? Football is unpredictable."[1] He emphasized no discussions are ongoing and focused on upcoming fixtures like West Ham and Nottingham Forest.[1][2]

Keys noted Guardiola's history of abrupt exits and a "worrying Haaland admission," hinting at deeper unrest.[2] City, who risk a second trophyless season under Guardiola—a career first—face mounting pressure with Arsenal extending their lead.[5] While the club would "deny it," Keys insists the idea is "on his mind."[5] This "disastrous twist" has ignited extraordinary rumors of an explosive Etihad exit in hours.[3]

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