Frank Christian
Manchester City is on the brink of a significant challenge — the search for a new head coach to replace Pep Guardiola.
Despite Guardiola recently signing a contract extension until 2027, discussions about his future are already circulating.
The team’s unusual winless streak of seven matches has raised questions, and Guardiola has indicated that he may step down if he feels he’s not the right fit anymore.
Furthermore, the potential outcome of the ongoing 115 charges against Manchester City might also influence Guardiola’s decision, with a resolution expected in early 2024.
While it’s improbable for him to leave mid-season, City needs to strategize for the eventual departure of their most successful manager.
Finding a fitting replacement for a coach of Guardiola’s stature will be challenging. Below are five candidates reportedly in the running for the role when the time comes.
1. Roberto De Zerbi
The former Brighton manager has been connected with elite clubs like Barcelona and Bayern Munich. His respect for Guardiola makes him a suitable candidate for City.
De Zerbi is recognized for his attacking style of play and has cited Guardiola as a significant influence on his coaching philosophy.
2. Michel
Currently achieving impressive results with Girona in La Liga, Michel’s ties to City Football Group make him a strong possibility for the position.
Girona’s sporting director even suggested that Michel could be a future coach for a top club like City.
3. Xabi Alonso
After leading Bayer Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title, Alonso has become a highly coveted coach across Europe.
Despite rejecting offers from clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich to continue with Leverkusen, there’s ongoing speculation about his next steps.
While he’s often mentioned as a potential replacement for Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, reports indicate that City might attempt to sign him.
Spanish journalist Guillem Balague has mentioned that City is among several top clubs interested in acquiring his talents.
4. Vincent Kompany
A revered figure at Manchester City with 360 appearances, Kompany has shown promise in his coaching career.
He began his managerial journey at Anderlecht in 2020 and led Burnley to a Championship title in 2023, finishing with an impressive 101 points.
Though Burnley faced relegation the following year, his innovative approach landed him the Bayern Munich role in 2024.
Pep Guardiola has expressed confidence in Kompany’s potential to return as a manager at Manchester City, though the timeline remains uncertain.
5. Xavi
Recently let go by Barcelona after plans to keep him fell through, Xavi is looking for his next managerial role.
Prior to that, he coached Al-Sadd in Qatar, gaining valuable experience and led Barcelona to a La Liga title in the 2022/23 season.
As a former protégé of Guardiola, Xavi’s coaching philosophy aligns closely with Guardiola’s, making him a viable contender for the future at Manchester City.
