Pep Guardiola has confirmed he will leave Barcelona at the end of the season after he decided not to renew his contract.
His deal was due to expire at the end of June and he informed the players at training today that he would not be extending his stay at the Nou Camp.
At a press conference this afternoon, president Sandro Rosell said: "We have called you today to announce that Pep Guardiola will not continue in charge of the team next season.
"Thank you Pep for all the happiness you have brought us and for bringing a model of football that can never be questioned."
Guardiola said: "I'm sorry for the confusion in recent weeks. I've always wanted short contracts because the demands at Barcelona are so big.
"Now we were out of the two main competitions, it was a good time to announce it.
"The reason is simple. Four years, that gets everyone tired. The new coach will give things that I can't give anymore.
"I would like you to understand that this is not an easy decision for me. But I would like to explain my reasons for this decision.
"I have always wanted short-term contracts. Four years is an eternity as Barca coach. In the month of October I announced to the president and to the sporting director that I thought my spell was coming to an end.
"The main reason why I have taken this decision is because four years is many years.
"I have given everything and I have nothing left and need to recharge my batteries.
"The demands have been great and I have not been able to rest much. I have to recover and the only way I can do that is by distancing myself. Otherwise, we would have ended up damaging each other.
"I know that I'm leaving the best place to work in. I am very satisfied with the result we have achieved. I have had the great privilege of coaching fantastic players. I want to thank them."
Guardiola is thought to have met with Rosell, vice-president for sport Josep Maria Bartomeu and sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta on Wednesday - the day after they were eliminated from the Champions League by Chelsea - and indicated his desire to leave.
At the club's request he promised to give it further thought but emerged with the same decision.
He stepped up from Barca B manager to first-team boss in 2008 and has gone on to become the most successful coach in the club's illustrious history.
He has led the azulgrana to two Champions League crowns, three La Liga trophies, one Copa del Rey, three Supercopas, two UEFA Super Cups and two FIFA Club World Cups.
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