Manchester City Draw Up Three-Man Shortlist To Succeed Pep Guardiola
Sports Updated: 05 February 2026 17:54 EAT
Former Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso
Manchester City are reportedly preparing a three-man shortlist of potential successors to Pep Guardiola as speculation grows over the Spaniard’s future at the Etihad Stadium. Reports suggest the club is considering contingency plans in case Guardiola decides to leave at the end of the season.
At the centre of the succession talk is Xabi Alonso, the former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen manager, who is widely seen as the leading candidate. Alonso’s tactical acumen and experience at elite clubs make him a strong contender to maintain City’s style of play.
Also expected to feature on the shortlist is Enzo Maresca, former assistant to Guardiola at City and ex-Chelsea manager. Maresca’s familiarity with the club’s philosophy and playing style positions him as a credible internal option.
Completing the trio is Cesc Fàbregas, currently managing Italian side Como. Fàbregas has impressed early in his coaching career and is considered a stylistic fit for City’s possession-based approach.
The Telegraph first reported the shortlist, which has since been confirmed by multiple outlets including Fox Sports and Football365. Despite the speculation, Guardiola has stated that leaving City is not currently on the table and has emphasized his focus on the current season.
Sources close to the club indicate that early succession planning is viewed as prudent given Guardiola’s long and successful tenure. The hierarchy is seeking a replacement who can continue the club’s identity while sustaining competitive success.
City officials are understood to have made no formal approaches to any of the candidates, with talks expected to take place only if Guardiola confirms he will step down. The club is reportedly keen on ensuring a smooth transition to preserve stability within the squad.
While Guardiola remains focused on multiple competitions this season, media speculation suggests that any decision regarding his future and the appointment of a successor will be closely monitored as the campaign unfolds.
All three candidates are considered to have the tactical understanding and leadership qualities required to take over a club of City’s stature, though experience levels vary. Alonso and Maresca bring more managerial experience, while Fàbregas offers fresh ideas and an intimate understanding of top-level football.
Manchester City continue to dominate domestically and remain contenders in Europe, making the eventual managerial decision critical to maintaining their success. The coming months are expected to clarify Guardiola’s plans and the club’s approach to the post-Guardiola era.
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FELIX MAKONA
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