Out of contract in June 2027 with Manchester City, Pep Guardiola's future remains uncertain. The end of a cycle appears to be approaching, forcing the Sky Blues to prepare for what comes next with an impressive shortlist.
Having arrived in July 2016 at Manchester City, Pep Guardiola is currently in his 10th season on the Sky Blues' bench. Such longevity in the dugout is rare, even more so at a European giant. The Spaniard has managed to implement a coherent and successful project while benefiting from the English club's significant financial resources.
Xabi Alonso, Enzo Maresca and Vincent Kompany tracked by Manchester City
However, the end of the Guardiola era is drawing closer. Indeed, the 55-year-old is out of contract in June 2027 and does not appear set to extend. TEAMTalk report that the Manchester hierarchy continue to display their usual calm in public on this matter, but are preparing for his succession behind the scenes.
Sources have notably revealed to the British outlet that preliminary work is underway on several candidates to replace Pep Guardiola. A shortlist of 7 names appears to have been drawn up. Among them are the three frontrunners mentioned in the press: Xabi Alonso, Cesc Fabregas and Enzo Maresca.
Pep Guardiola close to Manchester City exit
Sporting director Hugo Viana also has Vincent Kompany, a club legend, Andoni Iraola, who is doing good work at Bournemouth, Francesco Farioli (Porto) and current Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann in his sights.
It should be noted that the date of the former Barcelona coach's departure has not been disclosed. “Many people within the club believe Pep is going to leave, and even if it is not this summer, there is a sense that the final chapter is close,” a source told TEAMTalk, before adding: “You are not hearing many names at the moment, but we know that some serious candidates are being considered.”
