There has been increasing speculation surrounding the future of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, with many pointing out that a major managerial change could be on the horizon. While Guardiola’s long-term future at the club was initially unclear as he entered the final year of his contract, his decision to extend his deal until 2027 gave fans a sense of security about his continued presence at the Etihad. However, the course of the 2024/25 season has raised new questions about whether Guardiola will stay the course through the significant squad overhaul that is now necessary. Despite the extension, City’s disappointing campaign, including the early end of their Premier League title hopes, has led some to wonder if Guardiola might soon be reconsidering his position at the club.
In light of these concerns, former Manchester City player Dietmar Hamann has put forward two names as potential successors to Guardiola. According to Hamann, Germany’s national team manager, Julian Nagelsmann, and former Benfica boss, Roger Schmidt, could both be in the frame to replace the Catalan manager, should he decide to leave before his new contract expires. Nagelsmann, in particular, is seen as a prime candidate, given his previous success with top clubs and the high regard in which he is held by Guardiola. Hamann explained that Guardiola has a lot of respect for the 36-year-old German, and he could be an ideal choice for City should the time come for a managerial change.
However, there are significant factors that might complicate Nagelsmann’s potential move to Manchester. First, he is currently the manager of the German national team, and with the World Cup on the horizon, he is unlikely to leave his national duties at this critical juncture. The World Cup presents an exciting challenge for Nagelsmann, and Hamann suggested that the Germany boss would be unlikely to give up the opportunity to manage his country in such a prestigious tournament to take over at City. Even so, the possibility of Nagelsmann being linked with the Manchester City job in the future remains strong, and it seems he could be a topic of discussion if Guardiola’s tenure comes to an end sooner rather than later.
Hamann also mentioned Roger Schmidt as another candidate who could be considered by Manchester City in the event of Guardiola’s departure. Schmidt, who was sacked by Benfica at the end of last season despite leading the club to the Primeira Liga title, has a wealth of managerial experience and is known for his high-pressing, attacking style of play. While Schmidt’s tenure at Benfica may not have ended on the best note, his previous success with the Portuguese side and his experience in managing top clubs in Europe could make him a strong candidate for the role. Schmidt’s tactical acumen and ability to develop players make him an attractive option for clubs looking to bring in a manager who can build a competitive team.
Although these names are the most frequently mentioned as potential successors to Guardiola, Hamann also suggested that other German coaches could be in the mix, given the strong presence of German footballing philosophy at Manchester City. Guardiola himself has often spoken highly of the tactical innovations and contributions made by German managers to the modern game, and it would not be surprising if the club turned to another German coach to continue the style of play that Guardiola has established.
Another name that has been frequently associated with the potential managerial vacancy at City is Mikel Arteta, currently in charge of Arsenal. Arteta, who served as Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City before taking on the top job at Arsenal, has built an impressive reputation during his time at the helm of the North London club. Under Arteta, Arsenal has undergone a transformation, challenging for major titles and playing an exciting brand of football. Arteta’s connection to Manchester City through his time as Guardiola’s assistant, combined with his success at Arsenal, has made him one of the top contenders to replace Guardiola when the time comes. Former footballer Emmanuel Petit recently described Arteta as the “best possible replacement” for Guardiola, acknowledging his growth as a manager and his understanding of City’s philosophy.
While these managerial names have been discussed, it is important to note that Guardiola is still very much in charge of Manchester City. Despite the club’s struggles this season, he remains one of the most successful and respected managers in world football. The pressure on Guardiola to lead City through a difficult period and oversee a squad overhaul is immense, but his reputation and ability to adapt to challenges cannot be underestimated. As of now, Guardiola’s focus will likely remain on steering City through the remainder of the season and securing their place in European competition.
That being said, the future of the club remains uncertain, and Manchester City must begin planning for the possibility of a managerial change in the coming years. Whether Guardiola decides to continue his journey at City beyond his current contract or if he ultimately steps aside for a fresh challenge, the club will need to ensure they have a successor ready to take on the responsibility of continuing the club’s success. Nagelsmann, Schmidt, Arteta, and others will no doubt be discussed as options, but Manchester City’s leadership will likely take their time to find the right person to take over once Guardiola’s time at the club comes to an end.
In the meantime, City will look to address their immediate concerns on the field. Their poor form this season, coupled with their failure to challenge for the Premier League title, has brought added pressure to Guardiola, and the team will need to show resilience as they battle to secure a top-four finish and a spot in next season’s Champions League. However, the long-term planning for life after Guardiola is already underway, and City will be keeping a close eye on the managerial landscape as they prepare for the future. Whether it is Nagelsmann, Schmidt, Arteta, or another candidate, the decision regarding Guardiola’s successor will have significant implications for the club’s continued success. The search for a new manager will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched storylines in world football over the next few years.
Ultimately, the speculation surrounding Guardiola’s future at Manchester City underscores the pressures that come with managing a top club like City. Success on the field is expected, and with it comes the constant scrutiny regarding the manager’s long-term plans. Whether Guardiola stays for the full length of his new contract or moves on before then, one thing is clear: Manchester City will need to ensure they have a clear vision for the future and the right person in place to continue their pursuit of success on both the domestic and European fronts.
