Manchester City is going through one of its most challenging seasons in recent years. Despite Pep Guardiola's legacy and his dominance in the Premier League, the current results haven't met expectations.
The team is out of the Champions League spots. Something unthinkable for a squad of this level and a coach who has led the club to win 14 titles in the last seven years.
The inconsistency in play, the lack of effectiveness in attack and a defense that can't maintain the solidity of previous seasons have jeopardized the stability of the project. Although Guardiola renewed his contract until 2027, City's management is already considering a possible change of direction, which has led to considering names of potential replacements.
The Revolution City Plans for Summer
In an attempt to reverse the situation, Manchester City's management has designed a restructuring plan for the next season. Although the winter market saw some movements like the arrival of Marmoush, Nico González and Khusanov, the big impact will come in the summer.
Some of the most important players of the Guardiola era, like Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gündogan, could leave the club. While they have been key in City's recent history, the management believes it's time for a deep renewal to avoid the team's stagnation.
However, the big surprise is that the changes wouldn't only affect the squad but also the bench. Although Guardiola still has the club's support, his continuity isn't 100% guaranteed. City has already started evaluating options in case his project can't get back on track.
An Unexpected Candidate: A Barça Legend on City's Radar
Among the names that have emerged as possible replacements for Guardiola, one has particularly caught attention: Cesc Fàbregas.
The former FC Barcelona midfielder, who currently manages Como in Serie A, has begun to stand out as a coach. Although his team is in 13th position in the league, Fàbregas has demonstrated leadership and tactical vision that have caught the attention of several major clubs.
In his first months as a coach, he has managed to keep Como in the fight for survival and has imposed an offensive and intelligent play style. His connection with Guardiola and his knowledge of elite football have made him a real option for City if they finally decide to part ways with the Catalan coach.
The Future of Pep Guardiola at City
Although Guardiola is the most successful coach in Manchester City's history, the pressure from poor results could make the club seek a change. If the team can't react in the coming weeks, the management could make the drastic decision to part ways with the coach before his contract ends.
Fàbregas, with his experience in the Premier League and his close relationship with Guardiola, would be a natural candidate to continue the philosophy implemented by the Catalan coach. His knowledge of English football and his tactical vision fit perfectly with City's identity.
As the season progresses, Guardiola's future remains uncertain. If the results don't improve, his departure could be imminent, and Manchester City already has his potential successor in sight.