Pep Guardiola seems to believe Manchester City would be in good hands with Xabi Alonso at the helm, based on his previous high praise for the former midfielder.
With Guardiola’s contract set to expire next season, the 53-year-old has yet to decide on his future after nine successful years at the Etihad. However, as rumors swirl about possible successors, Alonso, currently managing Bayer Leverkusen, has emerged as a potential candidate. If Alonso were to take over from Guardiola, ten years after playing under him at Bayern Munich, it seems the current City boss would fully support the move.
Back when Alonso was linked to a possible future at Liverpool, as a replacement for Jurgen Klopp, Guardiola was asked for his opinion on Alonso’s coaching potential. He responded with enthusiasm, praising the Spaniard’s achievements at Leverkusen.
“If you ask me about the job he’s doing… honestly… wow!” Guardiola remarked. “The only team that’s unbeaten in all competitions, fighting against Bayern Munich.”
He continued, highlighting the tough challenge Leverkusen faced as they battled for the Bundesliga title: “Now they are in a position where they can lose the Bundesliga, but everyone thinks it’s done. But it’s not done until it’s done.”
Guardiola’s admiration for Alonso runs deep, having coached him during the final years of his playing career at Bayern. Even then, Guardiola saw signs that Alonso was destined to become a top coach.
“I was incredibly fortunate to have him for one and a half years, two seasons. He’s such an intelligent player,” Guardiola reflected. “Holding midfielders like him, Mascherano, Busquets, Rodri, Gundogan—they ask questions, they’re curious about the game. You know that when they retire, they’ll stay in football.”
Alonso’s playing career was impressive, featuring stints at Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, and Guardiola noted that his intelligence on the pitch translated to wise decision-making off it: “He was a top-class player—otherwise, you don’t play for clubs like Liverpool, Madrid, and Bayern. He made good decisions, and I’m so happy for him. He deserves it; he’s a lovely, lovely guy.”
Currently, Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen is enjoying a strong season, sitting fourth in the Bundesliga, just three points behind Bayern Munich after seven matches. His success has earned him admirers across Europe, and with Guardiola’s praise, the idea of Alonso taking the reins at City doesn’t seem far-fetched.
