The Eastlands skipper insists he will leave in the summer, sparking a worldwide transfer scramble.
The bombshell comes just days after City boss Roberto Mancini claimed the star was staying.
Tevez, speaking to Argentine station Radio del Plata, said: "I want to leave Manchester City.
"Football has changed a lot for me and I don't know if I will even make it to the next World Cup.
"And that has nothing to do with whether I'm selected or not.
"I've been treated very well here and I'm grateful.
"I also gave my everything for the club to receive the results it has had. But I need a change of scene."
Mancini had hoped striker Tevez would stay and help lead his Champions League charge next season in the wake of Tuesday's two-goal supershow against Stoke.
But City have been unsure about the goal ace's intentions, knowing Tevez is keen to be closer to his estranged wife and kids.
Now their fears have come home to roost, with Italy or Spain his preferred destination.
A potential stumbling block is the 27-year-old's whopping weekly wage of over £200,000, meaning a dream return to Argentina is highly unlikely.
Tevez added: "To go back to Boca Juniors would be beautiful but it is very difficult.
"I spoke to their midfielder Roman Riquelme and, messing around, we agreed I would go back one day. But if we're speaking seriously, financial issues would make my return difficult."
After lifting the FA Cup at Wembley following last Saturday's 1-0 victory over Stoke, Tevez said the chance to overhaul former club Manchester United could yet persuade him to stay at City.
Yet he also admitted that he would need to chat over the future with his family first, which has now helped him to make up his mind to head for the exit.