Manchester United-Bound Amorim Rules Out Etihad Move, But City’s Succession Plan Still Full of Options
Just weeks ago, Manchester City’s Champions League clash with Sporting CP looked poised to symbolize a future transition, with Ruben Amorim seen as a strong candidate to step into Pep Guardiola‘s shoes when the City boss decides to conclude his remarkable nine-year tenure at the Etihad. City had already hired Hugo Viana from Sporting as their new director of football, and bringing in Amorim seemed like a natural next step.
However, instead of an eventual handover, Amorim is now on track to become Guardiola’s Manchester rival, with the Sporting manager set to join Manchester United after the upcoming international break. This week’s Champions League match may just be a preview of the Manchester Derbies to come in December and April.
As Guardiola enters the final year of his contract, he has kept fans and the club in suspense about his future. City, however, has dismissed any serious pursuit of Amorim, saying his approach doesn’t align with their strategic vision. Amorim himself admitted United’s timing left him little choice, saying, “it was now or never.” Speculation lingers as to whether City was interested in Amorim at any point or if Guardiola, perhaps buoyed by Viana’s insights, is now more inclined to stay on.
Even if the specifics of Amorim’s connection with City remain unclear, what’s evident is that one of Europe’s rising stars in management is now off the market. City will need to explore other options when the time comes to replace Guardiola. Here’s a look at 12 potential successors:
12. Xavi Hernandez
Once a midfield maestro under Guardiola at Barcelona, Xavi Hernandez has followed a similar path, returning to Camp Nou to coach and reclaim the La Liga title. Though his recent season with Barcelona was challenging, his deep connection with Guardiola’s philosophy makes him a natural fit to take over at City.
11. Andoni Iraola
A surprise name in the Premier League, Andoni Iraola led Bournemouth to a significant victory over City, and his fast-paced, transitional style has found early success. Guardiola acknowledged him as one of the league’s top managers, and Iraola’s fresh approach could be intriguing with City’s resources.
10. Julian Nagelsmann
Having taken the reins of Germany’s national team, Julian Nagelsmann may be tied up until the 2026 World Cup, but his innovative tactics and growing reputation make him a compelling choice for City down the line.
9. Simone Inzaghi
Known for his strong tactical acumen, Simone Inzaghi gave City a tough test in their Champions League campaign with Inter. While his style differs from Guardiola’s, his European success might bring a fresh dimension to City’s play.
8. Unai Emery
Unai Emery has revitalized his career with Aston Villa, steering them into the Champions League. Known for his resilience and tactical depth, Emery has proven he can build winning teams, and with City’s structure, he might achieve even greater success.
7. Luis Enrique
A former Barcelona star and Guardiola’s peer, Luis Enrique found immediate success by winning the treble with Barca, and his intense, attacking style would resonate well with City’s ambitions. His occasionally abrasive personality might be a challenge, but his track record speaks volumes.
6. Thiago Motta
Thiago Motta has adopted a possession-based style inspired by Guardiola and achieved impressive results with Bologna, securing a top-five finish in Serie A. Now at Juventus, Motta could be an option if he gains further experience and Guardiola extends his stay.
5. Enzo Maresca
Currently excelling with Leicester City, Enzo Maresca is well-versed in Guardiola’s methods, having previously worked as his assistant. If City times their succession with Guardiola’s departure, Maresca could seamlessly step in.
4. Michel
A City Football Group favorite, Michel led Girona to an impressive season in La Liga and shares Guardiola’s commitment to possession play. His limited big-club experience might be a drawback, but his potential is evident.
3. Roberto De Zerbi
The charismatic Italian led Brighton to their highest-ever league finish before making waves with Marseille. Known for his dynamic style, De Zerbi impressed Guardiola, who saw him as a potential successor. However, De Zerbi’s passionate nature may raise questions about his compatibility with City’s leadership.
2. Vincent Kompany
Vincent Kompany, once a legendary captain for City, now manages Bayern Munich after a promotion and relegation stint with Burnley. His leadership in the Bundesliga has impressed, and his deep connection with City makes him a fan-favorite option to replace Guardiola.
1. Xabi Alonso
Xabi Alonso stands out as one of Europe’s top young managers, guiding Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga season and mastering a unique 3-4-2-1 formation. With experience under elite coaches like Ancelotti and Guardiola, Alonso’s skillful and innovative approach could make him the ideal choice to carry on Guardiola’s legacy.
