Despite the departure of sporting director Txiki Begiristain, Man City remains confident in its ability to retain Pep Guardiola.
According to reports from England, Man City is preparing to part ways with Begiristain after 12 years, raising concerns among fans as he has a close relationship with Guardiola. Guardiola’s contract with Man City is set to expire in June 2025, and Begiristain’s departure could influence the Spanish coach’s future decision.
However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano stated that Man City’s management is still working to persuade Guardiola to stay. The negotiations to part ways with Begiristain had been planned in advance and are unrelated to Guardiola’s contract situation.
Romano noted, “The final decision rests with Pep, but Man City is confident in keeping him, even without Txiki.”
Currently, Hugo Viana, the sporting director of Sporting CP, is a strong candidate for the position left by Begiristain. Man City aims to continue its project with Pep and Viana.
Pep is currently in Abu Dhabi, where Man City’s ownership is based, but this trip is primarily for commercial obligations and not related to new contract negotiations.
In a recent match between Man City and Fulham in the seventh round of the Premier League (Man City won 3-2), fans displayed a large banner reading “Pep Guardiola volem que et quedis” (translated: “we want you to stay” in Catalan) in the stands at the Etihad Stadium, showing the deep affection they have for Pep and their desire for him to continue leading the team.