Four potential replacements for Pep Guardiola at Manchester City

Guardiola’s expected departure

Manchester City officials have begun planning for the future amid expectations that Pep Guardiola will leave the club at the end of next season.

The Catalan manager, who has led City to unprecedented success, is currently out of contract in 2025 and is ‘expected’ to depart, according to Jack Gaughan.

Guardiola’s record-breaking tenure

Guardiola has transformed Manchester City since his arrival in 2016. Under his leadership, the team has won six English top-flight titles in seven years, including a record-breaking fourth successive Premier League title last weekend.

This season, City also secured the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup, though they fell short in the FA Cup final against Manchester United.

Succession planning

With Guardiola’s departure anticipated, City executives are reportedly considering several potential successors. Four managers have emerged as leading contenders:

• Michel: Currently managing Girona, a City Football Group sister club, Michel has impressed in La Liga, securing a UEFA Champions League spot.
• Julian Nagelsmann: The Germany head coach is considered a strong candidate due to his innovative approach and tactical acumen.
• Xabi Alonso: Highly regarded for his success with Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the team to an invincible domestic double.
• Roberto De Zerbi: Former Brighton manager, admired by Guardiola himself, known for his tactical prowess and success in the Premier League.

Manchester City’s achievements

Despite the FA Cup final loss to Manchester United, Manchester City’s recent accomplishments underscore their dominance in English football. They secured an eighth Premier League title with a victory over West Ham and finished the season with significant silverware.

Looking ahead

City’s focus now shifts to the future. While Guardiola’s departure will mark the end of an era, the club’s succession planning aims to ensure continued success. The potential successors reflect a commitment to maintaining the high standards set by Guardiola.