Manchester City Set for Major Backroom Shake-Up and Transfer Boost
Manchester City are gearing up for a pivotal change behind the scenes next summer, as Txiki Begiristain, the club’s sporting director for the past 13 years, prepares to step down. Reports from the October international break confirmed that Begiristain will leave his role at the end of the season.
Taking his place will be Hugo Viana, Sporting CP’s current director of football. Sources revealed Viana has agreed to join City and will assume the position at the Etihad Stadium after the season concludes.
Morten Hjulmand: A Rising Star on City’s Radar
The November international break has brought another name into the spotlight—Morten Hjulmand, a player who has both competed against City and worked under Hugo Viana at Sporting CP. His recent performance for Denmark has highlighted why he could become a prime transfer target for the Manchester club.
In October, Denmark’s manager, Brian Riemer, praised Hjulmand, saying:
“Morten Hjulmand is good enough to join City or another top Premier League side in the future.”
Hjulmand backed up those words with a stellar display in Denmark’s 2-1 Nations League loss to Spain on Friday. The 25-year-old Sporting midfielder excelled with:
- 52 out of 56 accurate passes, including two key passes.
- A strong defensive effort, including three tackles, two interceptions, one clearance, and winning six of seven duels.
His performance earned him an impressive 7.5/10 rating from SofaScore, making him Denmark’s highest-rated player on the night.
Hugo Viana’s Potential Dream Start at Manchester City
Hjulmand’s talent is evident at both the club and international levels. Since joining Sporting CP in 2023, he has made 65 appearances, scored six goals, and registered five assists. His potential has not gone unnoticed, with Hjulmand previously expressing admiration for City star Rodri after the Spaniard won the Ballon d’Or.
Hjulmand said:
“When I watch Manchester City or Spain, I see a top player. He deserves to win the Ballon d’Or, and I think he is a big inspiration for all midfielders in the world.”
Given Viana’s seven-year tenure at Sporting CP, during which he signed Hjulmand from Lecce, his experience and connection with the midfielder could pave the way for a seamless transfer to City. If the Manchester giants decide to bolster their midfield, Hjulmand could be the perfect addition to Pep Guardiola’s squad.
With Hugo Viana stepping into his new role next summer, securing a talent like Hjulmand could mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Manchester City.
