💣Is the post-Guardiola era coming? Xabi Alonso is City's top choice | OneFootball

The draw between Manchester City and Tottenham, which left the "Citizens" six points behind the leader Arsenal, has sparked rumors about the end of an era. With the growing belief that this will be Pep Guardiola's last season after a decade in charge, the club's management is already working on a contingency plan with a list of three main candidates to succeed the Catalan coach.

The Favorites: From Xabi Alonso to the Maresca Option

Xabi Alonso emerges as the strongest name. Despite his past at Liverpool, his tactical profile is appealing at the Etihad, especially after being released from Real Madrid in January. Alongside him is Enzo Maresca, a former assistant to Guardiola; although he was recently dismissed from Chelsea, his knowledge of City's DNA and his relationship with sporting director Hugo Viana keep him as a serious contender. The club is looking for a profile that guarantees philosophical continuity but with renewed energy.

The Emergence of Cesc Fábregas and the Motivational Factor

The big surprise on the list is Cesc Fábregas, who is dazzling Europe with his work at Italian club Como. His rise as a strategist has not gone unnoticed by English analysts, who see him as capable of making the leap to a Premier League giant. Meanwhile, the City locker room seems to be feeling the uncertainty: sources close to the club suggest that the lack of decisiveness and the apathy of some stars are clear signs that Guardiola's cycle might be coming to an end.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 FADEL SENNA - AFP or licensors