Manchester City’s sporting director Txiki Begiristain is set to depart the club in 2025. This news has naturally raised questions about the future of the club’s revered manager, Pep Guardiola. However, inside sources suggest that Guardiola’s tenure remains secure, with the final decision resting squarely on the shoulders of the decorated Spanish tactician.
Txiki Begiristain, a key architect of Manchester City’s dominance in English football, will bid farewell to the Etihad in 2025. His departure marks the end of an era that saw City transform from ambitious outsiders to the pinnacle of European football.
Txiki’s contribution to Manchester City cannot be overstated,” said former City captain Vincent Kompany. “His eye for talent and strategic planning have been instrumental in building the powerhouse we see today.”
The decision for Begiristain to step down was reportedly finalized over the summer, following City’s historic treble-winning 2022-23 season. This timing has given the club ample opportunity to plan for the future and identify potential successors.
With Begiristain’s departure confirmed, all eyes have turned to Pep Guardiola. The relationship between the two Spaniards has been a cornerstone of City’s success, leading to speculation about Guardiola’s future at the club.
However, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Guardiola’s position remains unaffected. The board is unanimous in their desire to extend Pep’s tenure beyond 2025,” Romano stated. While Txiki’s departure is significant, it doesn’t alter the club’s long-term vision with Guardiola at the helm.
As Manchester City prepares for life after Begiristain, the search for his successor is already underway. Sources close to the club have revealed that Sporting CP’s director of football, Hugo Viana, has emerged as the frontrunner for the position.
Football analyst Maria Thompson offers her perspective: “Viana’s work at Sporting has been impressive. He’s shown an ability to identify young talent and build a competitive squad on a budget. If appointed, he could bring a fresh approach to City’s recruitment strategy.
Adding intrigue to the situation, reports from The Athletic have confirmed that Guardiola is currently in Abu Dhabi, the headquarters of City’s ownership. While such visits have historically coincided with contract extensions, sources insist that this trip is related to routine commercial obligations.
“Pep’s presence in Abu Dhabi is not unusual,” explains City insider John Smith. However, given the timing and the changes happening at the club, it’s natural for fans to speculate. The reality is, these visits are often planned well in advance for various club-related activities.”
The Manchester City faithful have made their feelings clear regarding Guardiola’s future. Prior to a recent Premier League fixture against Fulham, a large banner was unfurled at the Etihad Stadium bearing the message “Pep Guardiola volem que et quedis” – Catalan for “we want you to stay.
Lifelong City fan Sarah Thompson was present at the match: “That banner gave me goosebumps. Pep has brought us so much joy and success. The thought of him leaving is unimaginable for most of us. He’s more than a manager; he’s become a part of the City family.”
As Manchester City continues their quest for an unprecedented fifth consecutive Premier League title, the focus remains on the pitch. Guardiola will lead his team against Wolves on October 20, with the backdrop of these off-field developments adding an extra layer of intrigue to the match.
It’s business as usual for us,” stated City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne in a recent press conference. Pep has always been great at keeping the squad focused on our goals. Whatever happens off the pitch, our job is to perform on it.”
The departure of Txiki Begiristain undoubtedly marks the end of an era for Manchester City. His partnership with Pep Guardiola has yielded unprecedented success, transforming the club into a global footballing powerhouse.
As the club prepares for this transition, the retention of Guardiola becomes even more crucial. His tactical acumen, ability to motivate players, and understanding of the City project make him irreplaceable in the eyes of many.
The coming months will be pivotal. Will Guardiola commit his long-term future to the club? How will the new sporting director, potentially Hugo Viana, work alongside the decorated manager? These questions will shape the next chapter of Manchester City’s story.
One thing is certain: the City faithful, the board, and football fans around the world will be watching closely. Pep Guardiola’s decision will not only impact Manchester City but could potentially shift the balance of power in English and European football.
As the season progresses and discussions inevitably continue, all roads lead to one central question: Will Pep stay or will he go? Only time will tell, but for now, the focus remains on the pitch, where Manchester City continues to set the standard for excellence in English football.
