One of the most compelling storylines in football right now is the future of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Ever since David Ornstein reported for The Athletic that this season could be Guardiola's last at the Etihad, fans and pundits alike have been searching for any clue about what comes next.

Now, a new report from Sam Lee adds another layer to the intrigue. Fitness coach Lorenzo Buenaventura—a man who has been by Guardiola's side throughout his entire managerial journey—is set to leave City at the end of this season. Buenaventura has been a constant presence for over 15 years, working with Guardiola at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. Alongside him, goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisidor is also reportedly heading for the exit.

So, does Buenaventura's departure signal that Guardiola is ready to follow him out the door? Not necessarily. Lee's report notes that Guardiola remains "highly motivated and in good spirits," especially given how strongly his revamped City side has finished the season. That doesn't sound like a manager ready to walk away.

Still, sources in several departments at City reportedly expect Guardiola to call time on his reign at the end of this season. If he does stay for the final year of his contract, he'll have to do so without the fitness coach who knows his methods inside and out. That's a significant change for any manager, let alone one as detail-oriented as Guardiola.

For now, the winds of change are blowing through Manchester City. Whether Guardiola will be swept along with them—or stand firm for one more season—remains the biggest question in English football.