Manchester City may be bracing themselves for a managerial change at the end of this season, as multiple reports suggest that Xabi Alonso is being seriously considered to replace Pep Guardiola. This comes amid ongoing speculation about Guardiola’s future at the Etihad Stadium, with his current contract set to expire soon. The prospect of one legendary Spanish manager succeeding another is generating significant buzz, and Alonso is seen as a top candidate to lead Manchester City into a new era.
### **The Guardiola Era at Manchester City: Is It Nearing Its End?**
Pep Guardiola has been a transformative figure at Manchester City, guiding the club to unprecedented success. Since arriving in 2016, he has led the team to numerous Premier League titles, FA Cups, EFL Cups, and, notably, the elusive UEFA Champions League title. The 53-year-old has become synonymous with the Cityzens’ success, implementing a brand of football that emphasizes ball control, tactical sophistication, and attacking prowess.
However, Guardiola’s future remains uncertain. His current contract with Manchester City expires at the end of the 2024 season, and he has hinted that his decision to extend his stay will depend heavily on his personal satisfaction and motivation. Despite leading Manchester City to the top of English and European football, Guardiola has expressed that his decision will be less about adding to his trophy cabinet and more about whether he continues to find joy in his daily work at the club.
After nearly a decade in charge, Guardiola’s time at Manchester City has already marked the longest managerial stint of his career, surpassing his tenures at both Barcelona and Bayern Munich. While recent reports suggest he is considering an extension, his future remains a subject of speculation, prompting City’s management to explore potential successors if Guardiola does decide to step down.
### **Xabi Alonso: The Leading Contender for Manchester City’s Future**
According to multiple sources, Xabi Alonso has emerged as a leading candidate to take over the managerial reins at Manchester City. Reports from **The Athletic** and other outlets indicate that Alonso, currently managing Bayer Leverkusen, is being considered by the City hierarchy as a top choice. Despite his contract with the German club running until 2026, it is believed that the allure of managing one of Europe’s biggest clubs could persuade Alonso to move to the Etihad.
Alonso’s managerial reputation has soared over the past few years. After successful spells in the youth systems of Real Sociedad and as a coach at Real Madrid’s academy, he took on the challenge at Bayer Leverkusen, where he quickly made his mark. Last season, he guided Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title, the first in the club’s 120-year history, playing a style of football that captivated fans and pundits alike. His tactical intelligence, leadership skills, and deep understanding of the game—honed during his playing days under legendary managers like Guardiola, Rafa Benitez, and Carlo Ancelotti—make him an attractive candidate for Manchester City.
### **Manchester City’s Managerial Shortlist and Competition from Real Madrid**
While Xabi Alonso appears to be Manchester City’s primary target, he is not the only name on their shortlist. The club is reportedly considering several options to ensure they have the best possible candidate in place should Guardiola depart. However, City is not the only club eyeing Alonso. Reports from **Sky Germany** indicate that Real Madrid is also interested in bringing Alonso back to Spain to replace Carlo Ancelotti if the Italian coach decides to step down. This means that Manchester City may have to act quickly and decisively if they want to secure Alonso’s services.
In response to the potential departure of their highly regarded coach, Bayer Leverkusen is already making contingency plans. The reigning Bundesliga champions have reportedly identified VfB Stuttgart’s Sebastian Hoeness and Sandro Wagner, currently serving as Germany’s assistant coach, as possible successors if Alonso moves on.
### **Alonso’s First Transfer Target: Barcelona’s Raphinha**
Adding to the intrigue surrounding Alonso’s potential move to Manchester City are reports that he has a clear vision for how he would shape the team if appointed. According to sources, including the **Daily Mirror** and Spain’s **El Nacional**, Alonso would prioritize the signing of Barcelona winger Raphinha as his first significant move in the transfer market. The Brazilian attacker, known for his pace, creativity, and goal-scoring ability, would be a statement acquisition, signaling the beginning of a new era at the Etihad.
### **Guardiola’s Thoughts on His Future at Manchester City**
Despite the rumors, Guardiola has remained noncommittal about his future. After a dramatic 2-1 win against Wolves last weekend, he addressed the media, reiterating his love for the job. “I like my job, as I’ve said many times. I love what I do,” Guardiola stated. He went on to emphasize that his motivation is not tied to winning more trophies: “In terms of numbers or titles, it is already done, I would say a long time ago. But still I like coming here in the morning to work. I love it. I am thinking about Wolves and the messages I have to tell them [the players], the images I have to see, the training I have to prepare. Still, I like it, and this is the main reason I am a manager.”
These comments suggest that Guardiola’s decision will be based on whether he continues to find fulfillment in the day-to-day aspects of managing the club, rather than the pursuit of more silverware.
### **Potential Changes Ahead for Manchester City’s Squad**
The uncertainty around Guardiola’s future isn’t the only source of potential change at Manchester City. There are reports indicating that the club’s roster could undergo a transformation next summer. Key players like Kyle Walker may be on their way out, with the club reportedly setting a modest price for the veteran right-back, who has been a crucial figure during Guardiola’s reign. Walker’s potential departure could signal the beginning of a broader transition phase within the squad.
On the transfer front, Manchester City is actively scouting young talent to replenish and strengthen their roster. They are currently competing with Liverpool for Brighton’s Argentine midfielder, Facundo Buonanotte, who is making waves during his loan spell at Leicester City. Additionally, City could face a transfer battle with Manchester United for England and Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, a player they see as a possible long-term successor to Rodri.
### **Alonso’s Appeal as Guardiola’s Successor**
Should Xabi Alonso step into Guardiola’s shoes, he would be following one of the most successful managerial tenures in recent history. However, Alonso’s pedigree as a former world-class player and his growing reputation as a tactician make him an exciting choice. His ability to adapt his teams to different challenges, play attractive football, and nurture young talent aligns closely with Manchester City’s philosophy. Moreover, his experience as a player under Guardiola himself might provide a seamless continuity of style, even as he adds his own unique tactical approach.
As the 2024 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Manchester City’s managerial situation. Whether Guardiola decides to extend his stay or the club ushers in a new era with Xabi Alonso at the helm, one thing is certain: the Cityzens are preparing for the next chapter in their quest for continued dominance in English and European football.