As Manchester City fans eagerly await news on Pep Guardiola’s future, club officials are staying proactive in the face of uncertainty.
Guardiola’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the season, marking the potential end of his nine-year tenure at the Etihad Stadium.
While the club remains hopeful that Guardiola will extend his stay—after all, he has overseen the most successful period in the club’s history—there is still no definitive word on his intentions.
According to reports, Manchester City was hoping to receive a decision from Guardiola before Christmas, as suggested earlier this year. However, the club is currently in the dark about his plans.
In the meantime, City has been carrying out “due diligence” on potential managerial replacements, including Xabi Alonso, as part of contingency plans should Guardiola decide to leave.
Despite Guardiola’s public statements suggesting he could be open to a contract extension, some reports have cast doubt on this, citing uncertainty about his future.
Alonso, who has impressed as the manager of Bayer Leverkusen, is among those being considered.
Under his leadership, the Bundesliga team won the league and cup double last season, while only suffering one defeat—the Europa League final against Atalanta.
His potential departure from Leverkusen at the end of the season has raised speculation that he could be a candidate to succeed Guardiola.
The uncertainty surrounding Guardiola’s future is also having an impact on Manchester City’s players.
Many may be waiting for clarity on the manager’s plans before making their own career decisions.
While Guardiola appears to be enjoying his time at City, the prospect of managing for a decade is no doubt appealing.
However, with his contract expiring, it remains to be seen whether he will stay or seek a new challenge.
The situation is a delicate one for City, who are eager to avoid a prolonged period of indecision.
A swift resolution to Guardiola’s future would benefit the players, the club, and fans alike, ensuring that the team can move forward with clear direction, whether that means securing Guardiola’s extension or preparing for a new managerial era.