**Xabi Alonso’s Condition for Replacing Pep Guardiola at Manchester City: A €100 Million Request**
As speculation mounts regarding the future of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, reports have emerged that Xabi Alonso, the current manager of Bayer Leverkusen, has made a significant request as a condition for potentially taking over at the Etihad. Alonso is said to be keen on bringing in German midfielder Florian Wirtz for a reported fee of €100 million, a move that could reshape City’s midfield dynamics in the wake of key player departures.
### Pep Guardiola’s Dilemma
In a recent press conference, Guardiola addressed the growing uncertainty surrounding his future at City, especially with the impending departure of sporting director Txiki Begiristain. “I have to decide. I don’t want to talk about it. I’ve said that many times, and hopefully all of you won’t ask me anymore,” Guardiola remarked, emphasizing that a decision has yet to be made. His comments indicate that he is contemplating his position and the implications of Begiristain’s exit, which he describes as a significant loss: “Part of me is leaving, I would say. A friend of mine and one of the architects of one of the best teams ever from Barcelona, and now here.”
Guardiola’s relationship with Begiristain has been instrumental in his success at City, and he acknowledges the deep connection they share. “Personally, he will be missed a lot. He helped me a lot in my period in Barcelona and, of course, here,” Guardiola noted. He reassured fans that despite the changes, Manchester City is a robust organization capable of moving forward without him or Begiristain.
### A Bright Future Ahead
The Spanish manager confirmed that he is aware of the various offers on the table from clubs around the world, particularly from Saudi Pro League teams eager to secure his services. There have also been rumors linking him to the Brazilian national team. However, Guardiola remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition for City, emphasizing, “Of course, with the relationship I have, if they ask me, I will give my opinion. But it is not my job. The decision will be taken by them, not by me.”
### Xabi Alonso: The Contender
As the search for Guardiola’s successor begins, Xabi Alonso has emerged as the frontrunner for the job. Having made a name for himself as an astute tactician at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso’s stock has risen significantly since taking the managerial reins. Reports indicate that he is the ‘strongest name’ being considered by the City board. However, for Alonso to step into the challenge of leading the Premier League champions, he has outlined a crucial condition.
### The €100 Million Request
Alonso is reportedly insisting on the signing of Florian Wirtz, a 22-year-old midfielder who currently plays for Bayer Leverkusen. The German international has been linked with several top clubs, including Manchester City, as a potential long-term replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who may be heading to the Saudi Pro League at the end of the season. Wirtz’s ability to dictate play and link up with forwards makes him an attractive prospect for any elite team.
Alonso views Wirtz as the ideal candidate to strengthen City’s midfield, and he has urged the Manchester City board to do everything possible to secure the midfielder’s services. This request highlights Alonso’s ambition and vision for the club, focusing on a long-term strategy that encompasses both talent acquisition and team development.
### What This Means for Manchester City
The potential arrival of Alonso, along with a high-profile signing like Wirtz, could signify a new era for Manchester City. As Guardiola prepares to make his decision, the club’s hierarchy must weigh the implications of his departure against the need to maintain their competitive edge in the Premier League and beyond. The prospect of a young, dynamic manager like Alonso taking the helm, paired with the addition of a talent like Wirtz, could reinvigorate City’s quest for success on multiple fronts.
### Conclusion
As Xabi Alonso’s name gains traction in the managerial discussions at Manchester City, his insistence on signing Florian Wirtz showcases his ambition and understanding of the game. With Guardiola at a crossroads and Begiristain set to leave, the future of Manchester City could hinge on these crucial decisions. For fans, the prospect of a new managerial direction, coupled with fresh talent, brings both excitement and anticipation as the club seeks to continue its legacy of success in the ever-competitive landscape of football.