Manchester City has included former Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso on their shortlist of candidates to potentially succeed Pep Guardiola as manager if he chooses to leave at the end of the season. There is growing sentiment suggesting that Guardiola, who previously managed Barcelona, may move on when the current campaign concludes, prompting Manchester City to strategize for his replacement.

Concerns about Guardiola’s Future

According to reports from the Telegraph, Manchester City is keen to consider Alonso for the managerial position this summer should Guardiola depart from the club. There is an underlying feeling that the Catalan coach may decide to exit his role at the Etihad Stadium as City currently sits six points behind Arsenal in the standings, having won just one of their last five league matches. Incidentally, they recently drew a match against Tottenham Hotspur after leading 2-0.

Alonso’s name appears on a shortlist that also includes Enzo Maresca, who previously left Chelsea after revealing his talks with City, and Cesc Fabregas, who has impressed as the manager of Como in Italy’s Serie A, leading his team to ambitions of European qualification.

Guardiola Reflects on His Future

Guardiola has maintained a level of confidentiality regarding his personal plans and has avoided disclosing future intentions. Yet, he conveyed during his contract negotiation that he believes he “deserves” to stay in Manchester. “Honestly, I think myself, my staff, and friends deserve to be here. I am not arrogant, that’s the truth.”

In a candid moment, Guardiola mentioned, “Since the start of the season I’ve thought a lot about it. I knew this [season] might be my last, but I feel now is not the time to leave. I couldn’t let the club down.”

What Lies Ahead for City?

Despite recent challenges, City remains competitive in the Premier League title hunt. They are set to face Newcastle in the EFL Cup semi-final and will follow up by challenging Liverpool in a crucial league match next weekend.