Manchester City made headlines during the recent international break with a significant announcement.
David Ornstein was the first to break the news that Txiki Begiristain, the club’s long-serving sporting director, will step down at the end of the season. Begiristain’s departure will mark the end of a 13-year tenure, with reports suggesting that he had originally decided to leave City last year, having continued his role after a decision made five years ago.
Shortly after, City confirmed the appointment of Hugo Viana as Begiristain’s successor. Viana, who has spent six years as Sporting CP’s director of football, will take over next summer. According to an official statement on City’s website, Viana will collaborate with Begiristain over the coming months to ensure a seamless transition into his new role.
With many City players away on international duty, one notable figure has already shared his thoughts on Viana’s arrival.
Bernardo Silva’s Take on Viana’s Appointment at Man City
Speaking to the Portuguese outlet Record (via Sport Witness), Bernardo Silva weighed in on Viana’s appointment, saying: “I don’t know him personally, but being Portuguese it will be positive for us.”
Viana’s Track Record at Sporting
Following his retirement from a playing career that saw him represent clubs like Sporting, Braga, Valencia, and Newcastle United, Viana briefly served as Belenenses’ sporting director before taking up the same role at Sporting in 2018. During his tenure, he played a key part in signing players such as Viktor Gyokeres, Morten Hjulmand, Ousmane Diomande, and Manuel Ugarte.
With Silva already expressing optimism due to Viana’s Portuguese background, Manchester City will now look forward to seeing if Viana can replicate the success that Begiristain brought during his time at the club.
