Life After Pep? Man City Prepare For A Post-Guardiola Future With Three-Man Shortlist

Man City are reportedly planning for life after Pep Guardiola, with Xabi Alonso, Enzo Maresca, and Cesc Fabregas named as potential successors.

Manchester City may already be preparing for a future without Pep Guardiola, as fresh reports suggest the club has identified potential successors should the legendary manager decide to step away.

Rumours surrounding Guardiola’s long-term future at Man City refuse to fade, and a new report indicates that the club’s hierarchy could be quietly working on a contingency plan for the post-Guardiola era.

Guardiola’s Transformational Impact At Man City

Since taking charge in 2016, Pep Guardiola has reshaped Man City into one of the most dominant forces in modern football. His reign has delivered 15 major trophies, highlighted by five Premier League titles and the long-awaited Champions League triumph that finally completed the club’s European ambitions.

Guardiola’s influence at the Etihad has gone far beyond silverware. His footballing philosophy, squad evolution, and relentless standards have defined an era — making the question of succession one of the biggest challenges City will ever face.

Replacing a manager of Guardiola’s stature would be a defining moment for the club.

Man City Shortlist Three Possible Successors

According to The Telegraph, Man City have drawn up a three-man shortlist in case Guardiola leaves after the 2025/26 season. The reported candidates are Xabi Alonso, Enzo Maresca, and Cesc Fabregas — all managers who align with the club’s footballing identity in different ways.

Xabi Alonso has earned widespread praise for his work at Bayer Leverkusen, impressing with his composed leadership and modern tactical approach. His rise in management has caught attention across Europe, making him a strong candidate should City seek continuity in style.

Enzo Maresca brings a deeper connection to Man City, having previously worked under Guardiola. His understanding of the club’s philosophy and recent experience as a head coach are viewed as key strengths.

Cesc Fabregas, meanwhile, is quietly building his managerial profile at Como. His approach blends Guardiola-influenced principles with his own ideas, placing him firmly on City’s radar as a long-term option.

Why Guardiola’s Future Is Under The Spotlight

While Guardiola remains under contract until 2027, the report suggests there is a growing belief within football circles that he could walk away at the end of the season.

Recent on-field struggles have only intensified the speculation. Man City currently sit six points behind Arsenal, have managed just one win in their last five Premier League matches, and most recently surrendered a 2–0 lead in a draw against Tottenham.

Although form fluctuations are nothing new, Guardiola’s history of stepping away after intense spells has added weight to the rumours.

Guardiola’s History Of Taking Break

Guardiola has never hidden his tendency to reset. After leaving Barcelona in 2012, he took a sabbatical before returning to management with Bayern Munich. He has previously hinted that a similar break could follow the end of his Man City chapter.

Those comments, combined with recent results, have led to increased focus on what comes next — even as Guardiola continues to lead the team through another demanding campaign.

Man City Still Focused On The Present

Despite the uncertainty, Man City remain firmly engaged in the current season. A Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle awaits, followed by a high-stakes Premier League clash with Liverpool.

For now, Guardiola remains fully in charge, and City are still competing on multiple fronts. Any decision about his future — or his successor — remains for another day.

But as speculation grows, it is clear that Man City are at least thinking ahead, preparing for the moment when one of the most influential eras in their history finally comes to an end.

FAQs

❓ Is Pep Guardiola leaving Man City?

Pep Guardiola is under contract until 2027, but reports suggest there is growing belief he could step away after the 2025/26 season.

❓ Who could replace Pep Guardiola at Man City?

According to reports, Man City have shortlisted Xabi Alonso, Enzo Maresca, and Cesc Fabregas as possible successors.

❓ Why are Man City planning for life after Guardiola?

Speculation has increased due to recent form struggles and Guardiola’s history of taking breaks after long managerial spells.

❓ Is Man City still competing this season?

Yes, Man City remain active in competitions, with a Carabao Cup semi-final second leg and a key league clash with Liverpool coming up.

Author

Tujja Roy