As Pep Guardiola approaches the final 18 months of his contract, Manchester City has begun the process of identifying potential successors to take the reins from the highly acclaimed manager. With a legacy that includes six Premier League titles and a Champions League win, Guardiola's departure will undoubtedly leave a void that will be challenging to fill. The club's sporting director, Hugo Viana, is expected to lead the search for the next manager, who will face the daunting task of following in Guardiola's footsteps.
Premier League Contenders are likely to be considered for the top job, with several standout candidates capable of stepping up to one of the biggest roles in world football. Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, despite dismissing reports linking him to City as "100% speculation," could be a potential candidate. Having worked as an assistant to Guardiola during the 2022-23 campaign, Maresca is familiar with the decision-makers at Etihad Stadium. However, his recent outspoken comments about the need for more experience in the playing staff and lack of support from the club's hierarchy may raise concerns about his suitability for the role.
Other Premier League managers who could be in contention include Unai Emery, who has led Aston Villa from the brink of relegation to European and title contention. Andoni Iraola, who guided Bournemouth to a ninth-placed finish last season, and Austrian Oliver Glasner, who stunned City in the FA Cup final last season, may also be considered. Englishman Eddie Howe, who ended Newcastle's long wait for a major trophy by winning the EFL Cup, could also be a dark horse in the running.
The next manager will have to be someone who can not only maintain the high standards set by Guardiola but also bring a new perspective and approach to the team. It's a daunting task, but one that could be rewarding for the right candidate.
European Options are also likely to be explored, with several high-profile managers potentially in the running. Luis Enrique, who led Paris St-Germain to Champions League glory last season, could be a candidate, although his appointment may be complicated by his history with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Xabi Alonso, who wrestled the Bundesliga title away from Bayern Munich during his time at Bayer Leverkusen, may also be considered, although his current situation at Real Madrid could affect his standing.
As the search for Guardiola's successor begins, City will be looking for a manager who can not only maintain the club's high standards but also bring a new level of success and excitement to the team. With a plethora of talented candidates to choose from, the club's sporting director, Hugo Viana, will have a difficult decision to make. One thing is certain, however: the next manager of Manchester City will have a tough act to follow in Pep Guardiola.
The process of finding a new manager will be a long and arduous one, with the club likely to consider a range of factors, including the candidate's experience, tactical approach, and ability to work with the club's existing squad. As the news of Guardiola's potential departure sends shockwaves throughout the football world, one thing is clear: the future of Manchester City is uncertain, but one thing is for sure - the club will be looking for a manager who can take them to even greater heights.
As the football world waits with bated breath to see who will be the next manager of Manchester City, the club's fans will be hoping that the new appointment will bring continued success and excitement to the team. With a rich history of attracting top talent, City will be looking to make a statement with their next managerial appointment, and the world will be watching to see who they choose to succeed the legendary Pep Guardiola.
Original: BBC Sport
Image: BBC Sport
Written by Npsports
