Guardiola Future at Man City: Club Prepares for a Successor

Pep Guardiola has said Manchester City must plan for life after his reign, as the club starts laying groundwork to identify potential successors. Separately, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has dismissed links to City as pure speculation amid ongoing leadership questions at Stamford Bridge.

City moves to secure a succession plan

City are understood to have begun compiling a shortlist of coaches who could take over when Guardiola steps away. The move mirrors standard practice at top clubs, aiming to have ready options should a leadership change be needed.

Maresca denies City link rumors

Enzo Maresca, a former Guardiola assistant who now leads Chelsea, insisted reports naming him as Guardiola’s successor are 100% speculation. He reaffirmed his commitment to Chelsea, whose contract runs through 2029 with an option for an additional season.

Guardiola's contract and outlook

Guardiola extended his deal in November 2024, tying him to Manchester through the 2026-27 season. He acknowledged that questions about leaving will arise, but stressed his focus remains on the current project and the team’s progress.

Asked whether he expects to stay beyond this season, the 54-year-old said he has 18 months left on his contract and is delighted with the squad’s development. He noted that football is fluid and plans can change, but there is no imminent decision to share.

Arsenal gap and upcoming fixtures

City sit two points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal ahead of their home match with West Ham on Saturday, with a 15:00 GMT kickoff.

City’s due diligence and succession planning

Analysts say the possibility of Guardiola leaving has sharpened City’s succession planning. Sporting director Hugo Viana is leading the shortlist, and a final call on the manager’s future is not expected until late in the season.

Chelsea's internal tensions

Chelsea’s situation remains delicate as Maresca faced questions about his remarks. He stressed there has been no escalation with owner Behdad Eghbali or other senior figures, and urged supporters to continue backing the team. Positive injury news: Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected.

Chelsea sit fourth in the Premier League, remain in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and continue European competition, keeping the focus on delivering results while the club navigates internal dynamics.

Expert comment

Expert comment: The leadership chatter at this level shows clubs plan well in advance, but public speculation can distract players and fans. City must balance transparent communication with discretion as they prepare for potential transition.

Short summary

Summary: Manchester City are actively preparing for Guardiola’s possible departure by building a formal succession plan and identifying potential successors, led by the new sporting director. Chelsea’s Maresca has dismissed links to City and remains focused on his role, even as internal tensions at Chelsea continue to surface. The coming months will test both clubs as they manage leadership questions alongside on‑field performance.

Key takeaway: Major clubs plan for leadership changes in advance, and Manchester City is formalizing its approach to succession as Guardiola’s future becomes a strategic consideration.

BBC Sport

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