Manchester City Begin Managerial Succession Planning as Pep Guardiola Future Faces Uncertainty
Manchester City’s board have reportedly begun preparations for life after Pep Guardiola, with a three‑man shortlist emerging as potential successors to the long‑serving manager — signalling one of the most consequential managerial transitions in modern Premier League history.
Although Guardiola remains under contract until June 2027 after signing a two‑year extension, speculation about his long‑term future is growing amid inconsistent recent results and a challenging title defence. City currently find themselves behind Premier League leaders and have faced pressure in key fixtures, fuelling talk that this could be Guardiola’s final season at the Etihad Stadium. 
The Three Front‑Runners
According to multiple reputable sources, Manchester City have highlighted three key names as the leading candidates to succeed Guardiola:
1. Xabi Alonso

– Tactical Innovator with Elite Experience
Former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso tops much of the short‑list. Alonso has rapidly built a strong coaching reputation in Germany, guiding Leverkusen to significant success, including a Bundesliga title with an unbeaten campaign — achievements that have attracted interest from several elite clubs across Europe. His tactical philosophy, emphasis on ball progression, and modern approach align closely with the style City have developed under Guardiola. 
Although Alonso’s tenure at Real Madrid ended prematurely, his stock as an elite young coach remains high, and he is widely considered one of the most compelling long‑term prospects for the post‑Guardiola era.
2. Enzo Maresca – Familiar Face with Tactical Continuity
Enzo Maresca, a former assistant to Guardiola at Manchester City and a part of the coaching setup during some of the club’s most successful seasons, is another leading contender. His previous experience within City’s coaching infrastructure — combined with subsequent managerial roles — has been seen by insiders as a potential pathway for continuity.
Reports suggest Maresca is respected internally for his understanding of City’s tactical identity and attacking philosophy. However, he remains under contract elsewhere, and prior comments have played down speculation linking him directly with Guardiola’s successor role.
3. Cesc Fàbregas – Rising Coaching Star from Serie A
Completing the trio is Cesc Fàbregas, the former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder currently managing Como in Italy’s Serie A. Fàbregas has impressed with his work in Italy, blending progressive attacking football with structured tactical discipline, making him an intriguing long‑term candidate for a club with City’s stature and aspirations.
His deep roots within elite football — both as a decorated player and an emerging coach — add to his appeal. Should City decide to prioritise innovative coaching talent with fresh ideas, Fàbregas would present a bold, forward‑thinking choice.
Beyond the Shortlist: Wider Managerial Context
While these three names dominate current reporting, there are wider conversations in the footballing world regarding managerial succession:
Some betting markets list alternative candidates — including seasoned international coaches — among potential long‑term replacements, though such options remain outside the core shortlist.
Vincent Kompany, City’s club legend now managing Bayern Munich, has been linked in certain reports as a dream candidate, though contractual realities make this less likely.
Guardiola’s Legacy and Timing
Pep Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City is widely regarded as one of the most successful in Premier League history, yielding multiple league titles, domestic cups, and historic Champions League triumphs. The club’s decision to finalise its succession strategy — even as Guardiola remains contracted — reflects the magnitude of planning required to replace a managerial icon who has defined an era. 
City officials have publicly downplayed speculation, describing discussions as routine long‑term planning rather than confirmation of any imminent departure. Nevertheless, internal and external voices in football circles continue to view this as a pivotal moment that could reshape the club’s competitive trajectory in the years ahea.