Pep Guardiola is expected to depart Manchester City next summer upon the expiration of his contract.
Since Guardiola’s arrival in Manchester eight years ago, the club has experienced unprecedented success, securing six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, and the club’s inaugural Champions League victory, which was part of an unprecedented treble last season.
As Guardiola enters the final year of his contract at the Etihad, City is eager for him to renew his terms.
However, the Daily Mail reports that City fears Guardiola may decide to leave at the end of next season.
Several potential successors are being considered, including Girona head coach Miguel Angel Michel, who has earned a strong reputation in Spain by leading Girona to Champions League qualification this season, competing effectively against Real Madrid and Barcelona.
The report also mentions Julian Nagelsmann as a possible candidate. The former Bayern Munich manager is currently overseeing the Germany national team until 2026.
Xabi Alonso is another highly regarded young coach in European football, having guided Bayer Leverkusen to the German title. Alonso declined interest from Liverpool and Bayern to stay with Leverkusen for at least another season.
Guardiola himself holds Roberto De Zerbi in high esteem. De Zerbi is currently a free agent after leaving Brighton at the season’s end.
City recently secured their fourth consecutive league title, setting a new record, but fell short of a double after losing to Manchester United in the FA Cup final on Saturday.
Last week, Guardiola expressed uncertainty about his future at City, hinting at the challenge of finding new motivation after their immense success.
“Last year, after Istanbul [the Champions League final win over Inter Milan], I said it’s over, there’s nothing left,” Guardiola said.
“But I have a contract and I start to think ‘no-one has done four in a row, why don’t we try?’. And now I feel it’s done, so what next?”
