Potential Successors to Guardiola at Manchester City
Guardiola’s Departure Outlook
Pep Guardiola recently stated that Manchester City needs to be ready for his eventual exit, emphasizing that he won’t stay in his position forever. The 54-year-old manager has significantly impacted English football, capturing six Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy during his nine-year tenure.
While the timeline for Guardiola’s retirement remains uncertain, Manchester City has reportedly initiated discussions to scout potential successors. Although specific names have not been disclosed, at least two candidates have emerged in conversations surrounding his replacement.
Premier League Contenders
Hugo Viana, the sporting director at City, is expected to spearhead the search for Guardiola’s successor. The club aims to fill one of football’s most prominent roles, and there are several candidates within the Premier League who might be considered.
One potential name is Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s current manager, who recently dismissed speculations linking him to City as “100% speculation.” Having won the Club World Cup, Maresca is familiar with City’s operations, having previously served as Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022-23 season.
Another standout candidate includes Unai Emery, who has revitalized Aston Villa, guiding them back into European competition. Andoni Iraola, after leading Bournemouth to a commendable ninth-place finish last season, is also considered an appealing option.
Additionally, Austrian coach Oliver Glasner, whose contract at Crystal Palace expires in the summer, and Eddie Howe, who recently guided Newcastle to the EFL Cup, are both names that could enter the conversation.
European Options
Manchester City could also look to Europe for high-profile candidates. Notably, Luis Enrique, who led Paris Saint-Germain to a Treble including Champions League success, is a strong contender. However, bringing Enrique on board could result in complicated dynamics, particularly regarding goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Xabi Alonso has made headlines for winning the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen and might attract City’s interest given his background under Guardiola at Bayern Munich. Meanwhile, Vincent Kompany, a former City captain and current manager of Bayern, has demonstrated strong managerial capabilities and would likely be a popular choice among fans.
Zinedine Zidane, who has been out of management for four years since departing Real Madrid, remains a notable figure. And lastly, Roberto de Zerbi, currently managing Marseille, has experience in the Premier League and could be a candidate, though there are concerns about his temperament.
Considering Internal Candidates
Is there a possibility that City will consider internal solutions?
Pep Lijnders, Guardiola’s assistant, has previously managed NEC and Red Bull Salzburg with mixed results, which may deter the club from appointing him. Similarly, Oliver Reiss, the Under-18s head coach, has enjoyed success with a long winning streak, but the leap to the first team could prove risky.
Unexpected Choices
What if Manchester City were to pursue some surprising names?
Mikel Arteta, who took the reins at Arsenal after being Guardiola’s assistant, has transformed the Gunners into credible title challengers. Could he become a candidate if City explores changes?
Another unexpected possibility might be Jürgen Klopp. The former Liverpool manager, known for his fierce rivalry with Guardiola, has a connection to City and may ponder a switch if offered the right opportunity, despite currently heading the Red Bull organization.
Overall, there are numerous intriguing options on the table as Manchester City prepares for the future following Guardiola’s eventual departure.