The first names emerging as potential replacements
The first names emerging as potential replacements
Pep Guardiola’s future at Manchester City is no longer considered a given. According to an exclusive report by
The Times
, the Catalan manager is seriously contemplating stepping down next summer, despite being under contract until 2027.The revelation comes just days after the 1,000th match of his managerial career — a milestone celebrated in ideal fashion as City cruised to a 3–0 victory over Liverpool, marking their fourth consecutive win across all competitions.
The Times report and early indications
The British newspaper claims that people close to Guardiola believe it’s increasingly likely he could request an early release from his contract. The 54-year-old is said to be “considering leaving England a year before his deal officially expires.”
Despite his excellent relationship with chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and newly appointed sporting director Hugo Viana, Guardiola is reportedly weighing up his options and contemplating his next career move.
The leading candidates to replace him
According to the same report, Manchester City have already begun assessing potential successors in the event that Guardiola does decide to part ways with the club.
Among the frontrunners:
- Vincent Kompany:The former City captain is enjoying an outstanding spell at Bayern and remains unbeaten this season.
- Roberto De Zerbi:The Marseille boss is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising up-and-coming coaches.
- Andoni Iraola:Having impressed at Bournemouth, he’s firmly on City’s radar as a potential option.
