Man City’s three-man shortlist to replace Pep Guardiola revealed

Six PL titles 

There’s a growing belief that Pep Guardiola will walk away from Manchester City this summer within the club’s hierarchy. And the Telegraph have reported that City chiefs have formed a three-man shortlist to prepare for Guardiola’s departure – Xabi Alonso, Enzo Maresca and Cesc Fàbregas. The 55-year-old is unquestionably one of the greatest managers in history and he’s enjoyed incredible success during his decade at the Manchester club.

Guardiola has led City to six Premier League titles and their first ever Champions League crown. Although there’s been speculation almost every season that he could bid farewell, Guariola has remained but it’s now felt like this could be his final season. There’s a feeling that the former Bayern Munich and Barcelona boss has lost some motivation for the project and will leave this summer.

Man City’s three-man shortlist to replace Pep Guardiola

Enzo Maresca was heavily linked with a return to Man City as Guardiola’s replacement towards the end of his time in Chelsea. The Italian worked under Guardiola before pursuing his managerial career at Leicester and he’s highly-regarded by City chiefs. The 45-year-old remains out of work since leaving Chelsea in December, but he’s keen on an immediate return to management. Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso was dismissed by Real Madrid after less than six months in charge.

The Spaniard, however, remains a very respected young coach and still holds credit in the bank for ending Bayern Munich’s dominance of German football by winning the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen. While Alonso’s reputation has declined in recent months, Cesc Fàbregas’ has soared due to his outstanding stewardship of Como. The former Barcelona and Arsenal midfielder led the club to Serie A and they are now in contention for a Champions League place. Guardiola remains contracted until 2027 but Man City are already preparing for his potential departure.