Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola is Part of a ‘Powerful Group’ Supporting a Possible Successor, Reports Suggest
Reports indicate that Pep Guardiola is among a strong contingent at Manchester City advocating for one particular candidate as a potential successor to his role, should he decide to depart at the season’s end. Guardiola, whose current contract—extended in November 2022—concludes after this campaign, is still weighing his future with City.
Guardiola has consistently stated that his decision to stay or leave depends largely on whether the players remain committed to his vision and instructions, a principle he continues to emphasize. City, meanwhile, is eager to keep Guardiola at the helm but respects his choice, understanding that the success of his eight-year tenure has earned him the freedom to make a decision without pressure.
Behind the scenes, City’s top officials, including Sporting Director Txiki Begiristain and his likely successor Hugo Viana, are exploring options within European football to identify possible replacements if a new manager is required.
One name gaining significant traction is Xabi Alonso, currently managing Bayer Leverkusen. According to insider ‘Tolmie’s Hairdoo’ on X, Alonso has a “very powerful block of supporters” at City, which includes Guardiola himself. The Spanish tactician, making waves in the Bundesliga, was Guardiola’s top choice to become his assistant after Mikel Arteta departed in 2019 to manage Arsenal. Though Alonso chose to remain loyal to Real Sociedad at that time, City officials were “extremely impressed” by his loyalty and professionalism.
Adding to City’s interest, Alonso’s recent contract renewal at Leverkusen reportedly includes a clause allowing him to entertain offers from select clubs, including City. This strategic clause might open the door for Alonso to step into Guardiola’s shoes, should the opportunity arise.
Alonso’s appointment could bring further benefits in the transfer market, as City has long admired several Leverkusen players. Florian Wirtz stands out as a young star with a key role in Leverkusen’s recent success, while Jeremie Frimpong is viewed as a potential long-term successor to Kyle Walker. Additionally, City has shown interest in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, a player Alonso knows well from his time at the Spanish club, as a possible solution to support the currently injured Rodri.
For now, Guardiola remains noncommittal on his plans, deflecting questions in press conferences by reiterating that no decision has been made yet. As the season unfolds, City will be watching developments closely, with Alonso’s name a prominent one in discussions around Guardiola’s possible successor.
