English media report that Manchester City has started planning for the era after Pep Guardiola, with Xabi Alonso as the top favorite on the list of new managerial candidates.
On 3 Feb 2026 GMT+7, English media reported that Manchester City has begun preparations for the post-Pep Guardiola era after clear signs emerged that this may be the Spanish coach’s final season at the Etihad Stadium. One of the main favorites is Xabi Alonso, the former legendary Spanish midfielder.
In their latest Premier League match, the "Citizens" drew 2-2 at home against Tottenham Hotspur last Sunday, leaving them 6 points behind the league leaders in the title race, further highlighting Guardiola’s challenging start to 2026.
Pep Guardiola took over as Manchester City manager in 2016 and has led the team to numerous trophies over nearly a decade. However, the Daily Telegraph reports that within the club there is growing expectation this could be his final season, and the board has already prepared a shortlist of three target managers.
The frontrunner is Xabi Alonso, who was recently dismissed by Real Madrid earlier this month after only six months in charge, failing to meet the "Los Blancos" expectations.
Previously, Alonso was linked to Liverpool as a replacement for Arne Slot, given his several seasons as a player at Anfield. However, currently the "Reds" have no plans to change their manager unless their UEFA Champions League performance falls below standards.
Another candidate is Enzo Maresca, who parted ways with Chelsea on New Year's Day following conflicts with club management. Maresca previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City and has had discussions with both his former club and Juventus.
Also on the list is Cesc Fàbregas, the former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder, who currently manages Como in Serie A and has led the team to 6th place in their second season after promotion.
Roberto De Zerbi and Vincent Kompany are also considered but with diminished likelihood. De Zerbi lost credibility after Marseille’s Champions League exit, while Kompany is reportedly not interested in leaving Bayern Munich at this time.
Reports indicate that Manchester City seeks a coach who understands the attacking football philosophy similar to Pep and can continue long-term success if a transition occurs this summer.