Manchester City are reportedly making preparations for the expected departure of manager Pep Guardiola following Sunday’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa.

According to reports, the highly decorated coach is anticipated to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the season.

Although City insist Guardiola remains under contract for next season and hope he will continue in the role, preparations for a possible exit are already underway behind the scenes, with several staff members reportedly expecting him to depart.

It is also understood that members of the playing squad are preparing for the possibility of Guardiola stepping down after the final game of the campaign, while the club has begun discussing ways to honour his remarkable tenure.

Former Chelsea FC manager Enzo Maresca, who previously worked under Guardiola at City, has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed the 55-year-old.

During his decade at Manchester City, Guardiola has guided the club to 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, three FA Cups, and five EFL Cups.

Widely regarded as one of football’s greatest managers, Guardiola could still add another Premier League crown to his collection this season, having already secured the FA Cup and Carabao Cup with City.