Pep Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City has been one of the most transformative in modern football, but his recent remarks hint at a future that could see the club preparing for life without their iconic manager. Despite extending his contract until 2027, Guardiola’s candid admission that he would step aside if he feels he becomes a hindrance raises important questions. The Premier League champions are enduring a challenging period—winless in seven matches, an unprecedented slump during his reign. This turbulent phase, compounded by the looming judgment on the club’s 115 financial charges, casts a shadow over Guardiola’s otherwise stellar leadership.
Guardiola’s Reflective Statements
Guardiola’s openness about his position reflects his deep commitment to maintaining high standards at City. His recent comments underscore this: “I don’t want to stay in the place if I feel like I’m a problem. I don’t want to stay here just because the contract is there.” This transparency, while admirable, introduces an element of uncertainty. Even as he remains confident that City will regain form once key players return, his acknowledgment of potentially stepping aside signals that the club must prepare for all eventualities.
The prospect of replacing Guardiola is daunting. Few managers have dominated English football with such tactical brilliance and consistency. However, speculation is already rife about who might succeed him. Let’s explore the top contenders who could fill the formidable shoes of the Catalan maestro.
1. Roberto De Zerbi
De Zerbi’s rise has been meteoric. Currently at the helm of Marseille after a successful stint with Brighton, the Italian tactician has earned accolades for his innovative approach and dynamic style of play. His admiration for Guardiola is well-documented. “I became a coach for Guardiola because I loved his Barcelona,” he once stated. This philosophical alignment suggests a seamless transition if City were to pursue him.
De Zerbi’s tactical flexibility and ability to maximize player potential make him an attractive candidate. Reports from Italy have long linked him to the Manchester City job, even before his move to Marseille. Given his propensity to seize career opportunities, De Zerbi could be a prime candidate should Guardiola exit.
2. Michel
Guiding Girona to an impressive third-place finish in La Liga has put Michel on the radar of Europe’s elite clubs. His connection with City is more than speculative; Girona is part-owned by the City Football Group. This affiliation could facilitate a smooth transition, as Michel’s footballing philosophy aligns closely with Guardiola’s ethos.
Girona’s sporting director, Quique Carcel, has voiced his belief in Michel’s potential to lead a club like City. However, he also acknowledges the need for experience at the highest level. “He has the talent to lead a big club like Manchester City,” Carcel noted, adding that the pressures at Girona differ significantly from those at a club of City’s stature. Nevertheless, Michel’s tactical acumen and familiarity with the City Group’s infrastructure could be invaluable assets.
3. Xabi Alonso
Xabi Alonso’s managerial trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. After steering Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title, Alonso has become one of the most sought-after coaches in Europe. While he has reportedly turned down offers from Liverpool and Bayern Munich to stay at Leverkusen, the allure of managing Manchester City might prove irresistible.
Spanish journalist Guillem Balague has hinted at City’s interest, adding Alonso to the shortlist of elite managers who could succeed Guardiola. Alonso’s tactical intelligence and leadership qualities, honed during his illustrious playing career, position him as a strong candidate. His potential move to City would add another chapter to his storied connection with Guardiola, whom he played under at Bayern Munich.
4. Mikel Arteta
Arteta’s transformation of Arsenal from mid-table mediocrity to title contenders speaks volumes about his managerial prowess. Having spent three years as Guardiola’s assistant at City, Arteta is well-acquainted with the club’s culture and expectations. His deep understanding of Guardiola’s methods, combined with his own tactical innovations, makes him a logical successor.
The question remains whether Arteta would leave Arsenal, where he has built a project from the ground up. Nevertheless, his strong relationship with the City board and familiarity with the club’s dynamics cannot be overlooked.
5. Vincent Kompany
Few figures are as closely associated with Manchester City as Vincent Kompany. A club legend with 360 appearances, Kompany’s managerial career has been equally promising. His tenure at Burnley, though marred by relegation, showcased his commitment to attacking football—a philosophy in line with Guardiola’s.
Now managing Bayern Munich, Kompany’s return to the Etihad seems more plausible than ever. Guardiola himself has endorsed this possibility: “I’m more than convinced today he’s going to come back. When? I don’t know, but it’s going to happen.” Kompany’s leadership qualities and emotional connection to the club could make him a fan-favorite choice.
6. Xavi Hernandez
Xavi’s departure from Barcelona earlier this year marked a turbulent end to his managerial stint, but his credentials remain strong. As a player under Guardiola, Xavi epitomized the tiki-taka style that defined Barcelona’s golden era. His tactical philosophy mirrors Guardiola’s, making him a natural fit for City.
Xavi’s experience managing a high-pressure environment like Barcelona, coupled with his success in La Liga, positions him as a credible candidate. His appointment would signal a continuation of Guardiola’s legacy, ensuring minimal disruption to City’s playing style.
7. Julian Nagelsmann
At just 37, Nagelsmann has already established himself as one of the brightest managerial talents in football. Currently committed to the German national team until 2026, his club-level experience with RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich highlights his tactical ingenuity and adaptability.
Nagelsmann’s dynamic approach and emphasis on youth development align with City’s long-term vision. While prying him away from the German national team might be challenging, the prospect of managing a club of City’s caliber could be enticing.
8. Zinedine Zidane
Zidane’s success at Real Madrid, where he secured three consecutive Champions League titles, underscores his ability to manage world-class talent. Although his tactical approach differs from Guardiola’s, Zidane’s winning mentality and experience at the highest level could bring a fresh perspective to City.
Since leaving Madrid in 2021, Zidane has been selective about his next move. City’s ambitious project and resources might be the ideal platform for his return to club management.
Conclusion
Replacing Pep Guardiola will be an arduous task, given his transformative impact on Manchester City. Each of these potential successors brings unique qualities and philosophies to the table. Whether it’s De Zerbi’s tactical acumen, Alonso’s leadership, or Kompany’s emotional connection, the club faces a pivotal decision that will shape its future. As Guardiola himself has acknowledged, change is inevitable. How City navigates this transition will determine whether they can maintain their dominance in English and European football.