Guardiola’s final tenure at Manchester City exposed in new documentary
New footage details the fallout with Kyle Walker, the emotional weight of a divorce, and the strategic gamble on Rayan Cherki as Pep Guardiola steps down after a trophy-laden decade.
A new Amazon Prime documentary series has laid bare the internal tensions that defined Pep Guardiola’s final two seasons at Manchester City, revealing a significant rift with former captain Kyle Walker and the personal struggles that accompanied the manager’s departure. The footage, released by BBC Sport, depicts Guardiola expressing profound sadness and frustration after Walker requested a transfer in January 2025, which resulted in a loan move to AC Milan.
The documentary captures a tense address to the squad following Walker’s departure, where Guardiola is heard telling players they “cannot behave” as a captain did in the “toughest moments.” This conflict is further illuminated by an argument recorded after a defeat at Anfield in December 2024, where Walker was at fault for losing possession that led to a penalty. Guardiola is shown berating the defender, citing his leadership role, while Walker retorts that he was not wanted as captain.
Guardiola’s emotional state during this period is portrayed as fragile, marked by a divorce, poor results, and visible physical stress, including scratches on his face observed during a Champions League draw with Feyenoord in November 2024. Manel Estiarte, a member of the technical staff, is shown addressing players’ concerns, explaining that Guardiola was anxious and dealing with personal turmoil, which affected his intensity and impulsiveness on the touchline.
The series also details the strategic overhaul of the squad, including the departure of Kevin De Bruyne and the signing of Rayan Cherki. Guardiola describes the difficulty of letting De Bruyne go, noting the Belgian’s emotional reaction and his own affection for the player. Conversely, sporting director Hugo Viana admits there were concerns about Cherki’s attitude before the £30m signing, though the French winger went on to provide 12 assists in 33 Premier League matches last season.
Guardiola stepped down as manager at the end of the 2025-26 campaign, concluding a 10-year tenure that saw him win 20 trophies. The documentary highlights his uncertainty about the future, with the manager stating he needs to refresh aspects of his personal life and doubting he will return to management. Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak is also shown reflecting on the manager’s resolve, noting that Guardiola had finally seen the “wolf” and was determined to fight rather than leave.
