Guardiola, Salah: Full list of top coaches, players set for major summer exits

By Enitan Abdultawab

The 2026 summer transfer window is already witnessing the end of several iconic eras across European football, with legendary managers and senior players preparing to leave clubs where they became household names.

From Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola ending his trophy-laden reign to uncertainty surrounding stars like Mohamed Salah and Andoni Iraola, here are the biggest exits dominating football headlines.

Pep Guardiola — Manchester City

Guardiola has officially confirmed he will leave Manchester City after 10 years in charge, bringing an end to one of the greatest managerial eras in Premier League history.

The Spaniard won 20 trophies during his time at the Etihad, including six Premier League titles and the club’s first UEFA Champions League crown. Manchester City also became the first English side to win four consecutive league titles under him.

The club has already announced plans to immortalise him with “The Pep Guardiola Stand” and a statue outside the stadium.

Andoni Iraola — Bournemouth

Andoni Iraola has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after managers following his impressive work at AFC Bournemouth.

After guiding Bournemouth to one of their strongest Premier League campaigns, Iraola has been linked with bigger jobs across Europe, especially following Guardiola’s confirmed exit at Manchester City.

The Spaniard earned widespread praise for transforming Bournemouth into one of the league’s most aggressive and entertaining sides, making his future one of the biggest talking points of the summer.

Bernardo Silva — Manchester City

Bernardo Silva is expected to leave Manchester City after years as one of Guardiola’s most trusted players.

The Portuguese midfielder played a major role in City’s dominance, helping the club win multiple league titles, domestic cups and the Champions League. Reports suggest he wants a fresh challenge after nearly a decade in England.

His farewell at the Etihad during Guardiola’s final game further confirmed his departure.

John Stones — Manchester City

John Stones is also leaving Manchester City after establishing himself as one of the club’s most important defenders during Guardiola’s reign.

The England international overcame injury setbacks and criticism earlier in his career to become central to City’s tactical evolution, especially during their treble-winning campaign.

Supporters gave him an emotional farewell during Guardiola’s final home appearance.

Mohamed Salah — Liverpool

After nearly a decade at Liverpool FC, Salah is widely expected to depart as one of the greatest players in the club’s history.

The Egyptian forward transformed Liverpool’s attack since joining from Roma in 2017, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and several individual awards.

Despite continued brilliance in front of goal, reports suggest Liverpool are preparing for life after Salah as the club begins a new era following the departures of several senior figures.

Andrew Robertson — Liverpool

Andrew Robertson is another long-serving Liverpool star whose future remains uncertain.

The Scottish captain became one of the best left-backs in world football under Jürgen Klopp, forming a devastating partnership with Trent Alexander-Arnold during Liverpool’s most successful modern era.

With Liverpool planning a squad rebuild after bringing on Kerkez last season, Robertson has been linked with possible moves abroad.

Robert Lewandowski — Barcelona

Lewandowski’s time at FC Barcelona comes to an end as the Catalan club continues reshaping its squad.

The veteran striker arrived from Bayern Munich as one of Europe’s deadliest forwards and maintained impressive scoring numbers despite his age.

However, Barcelona are reportedly considering younger attacking options moving forward.

Casemiro — Manchester United

Casemiro is expected to leave Manchester United this summer.

The Brazilian midfielder brought experience and leadership after arriving from Real Madrid, and has impressed across all competitions for the red devils.

He has now helped the team qualify for UCL football after a disastrous season.

Antoine Griezmann — Atlético Madrid

Griezmann is reportedly considering ending his second spell at Atlético Madrid.

The French star remains one of Atlético’s greatest modern players, but growing interest from clubs outside Europe has fueled speculation over a summer departure.

He has previously hinted at ambitions of playing in Major League Soccer before retirement.

Santi Cazorla — Real Oviedo

Veteran midfielder Santi Cazorla is expected to retire after an emotional final chapter with Real Oviedo.

The former Arsenal star returned to his boyhood club in one of football’s most celebrated homecomings after recovering from career-threatening injuries.

Koke — Atlético Madrid

Koke’s future at Atlético Madrid is also set to depart Atletico Madrid after a long spell in the Spanish team.

The midfielder has spent his entire professional career at Atlético and captained the club through some of its most successful years under Diego Simeone.

A departure would mark the end of an era in Madrid.

Dani Carvajal — Real Madrid

Dani Carvajal, a Real Madrid star, has been celebrated over the week as he is leaving the club.

The defender has enjoyed a hugely successful career with Madrid, winning multiple Champions League and La Liga titles.

Injuries and age, however, have increased uncertainty over his long-term role.

David Alaba — Real Madrid

Persistent injury problems fueled speculation about Alaba’s future at Real Madrid.

The Austrian defender arrived from Bayern Munich as one of Europe’s elite defenders but has struggled with fitness in recent seasons.

Madrid are reportedly open to reshaping their defensive options this summer.

Julian Brandt — Borussia Dortmund
Julian Brandt has attracted interest from clubs outside Germany as Borussia Dortmund prepare for squad changes.

The attacking midfielder has been one of Dortmund’s most creative players but is now set to seeking a new challenge abroad.

Niklas Süle — Borussia Dortmund

Niklas Süle is also reportedly available for transfer as Dortmund continue restructuring plans.

The defender’s inconsistency and injury concerns have contributed to uncertainty surrounding his future, despite his solid performances for the Yellows over the years.

Vanguard News

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