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Alonso Eyed as Guardiola's Successor at City
8 Apr
Summary
- Xabi Alonso is reportedly a contender to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
- Guardiola's contract is set to expire in the summer of 2027.
- City officials are actively engaged in succession planning for a new manager.
Manchester City is reportedly exploring Xabi Alonso as a potential candidate to succeed Pep Guardiola as head coach. Guardiola's current contract runs until the summer of 2027, though reports indicate he may leave the Etihad Stadium a year earlier. A final decision on his future is anticipated by the end of the current season.
City officials have been proactively planning for a managerial transition for several months. Director of football Hugo Viana and chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak are understood to have compiled a shortlist of prospective replacements. While Enzo Maresca has been frequently cited as a leading option, Alonso's name has gained significant traction.
Alonso, who previously managed Real Madrid and achieved a historic unbeaten Bundesliga title with Bayer Leverkusen in 2023-24, is now a free agent. His innovative coaching style makes him an attractive proposition for a club seeking to sustain its high level of performance in English and European football.
Guardiola has previously expressed admiration for Alonso, with whom he worked at Bayern Munich. Their shared footballing philosophy could facilitate a smooth succession. City's shortlist has also reportedly included Cesc Fabregas, Roberto De Zerbi, and Andoni Iraola.
