Guardiola and Klopp eras end as Salah and Robertson depart
Pep Guardiola will conclude his tenure at Manchester City following the club's final Premier League match against Aston Villa on May 16, 2026. The same day will mark Mohamed Salah's and Andy Robertson's final appearances for Liverpool in their season-ending fixture against Brentford.
The simultaneous exits of two managerial giants and two club legends highlight a pivotal transition in English football. Guardiola’s decision to step down comes after eight years in charge at the Etihad Stadium, where he secured six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and a historic Treble in 2023.
Liverpool’s match against Brentford serves as the farewell game for Salah and Robertson, who have been integral to the club’s recent success. The Egyptian forward and Scottish left-back have each spent over a decade at Anfield, contributing to multiple domestic and European triumphs.
While Guardiola’s departure signals the end of an era under his leadership, Liverpool’s game will also carry emotional weight as Salah and Robertson play their last matches in a red shirt. Their legacies at the club are defined by consistency, leadership, and trophy-winning contributions.
Both clubs enter the final matchday with contrasting objectives. Manchester City aims to secure their fourth consecutive Premier League title, while Liverpool seeks to finish in the top four following a transitional season.
The Premier League’s 2025-26 season concludes with these high-profile farewells, underscoring the league’s ability to produce memorable narratives even in moments of change. The departures of Guardiola, Salah, and Robertson leave significant voids in their respective teams.
For Manchester City, the search for a successor to Guardiola begins, with the club expected to prioritize continuity in style and ambition. Liverpool, meanwhile, will focus on transitioning to a new era while preserving the core values instilled by outgoing figures.
The final day of the season thus becomes a symbolic bridge between past achievements and future ambitions for both clubs.
Guardiola’s final game against Aston Villa will be broadcast live, ensuring global audiences witness the conclusion of his tenure.