Who could replace Guardiola? 15 contenders for the Man City job

November 12, 2025 Kris Isaksen

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City reign may soon come to an end, sparking speculation about who could possibly fill his shoes. From former players and assistants to emerging tacticians and proven winners, the list of potential successors is a mix of the expected and the surprising. Here are 15 of the leading candidates to take over at the Etihad — ranked from least to most likely.

15. Oliver Reiss – 25/1

Oliver Reiss may not be a household name, but the German youth coach is developing a strong reputation at City’s academy. Known for aligning with Guardiola’s principles while focusing on player growth, he could offer continuity — though he’s likely still too inexperienced for the top job.

14. Stefano Pioli – 25/1

Despite being available, Stefano Pioli’s recent struggles at Fiorentina make his candidacy a long shot. While he boasts a 2022 Serie A title, his recent dismissal after a poor start raises doubts about his suitability for the high-pressure City role.

13. Sebastian Hoeness – 25/1

Sebastian Hoeness has earned plaudits for transforming Stuttgart and guiding them to a second-place Bundesliga finish. His attacking approach and talent for developing players are attractive traits, but the jump to City may come too soon in his career.

12. Thiago Motta – 25/1

After a breakthrough season with Bologna, Thiago Motta’s move to Juventus proved disastrous, ending with poor results and a swift exit. His recent form makes him a risky option to follow Guardiola, especially at a club where expectations are sky-high.

11. Xavi Hernandez – 25/1

Xavi Hernández — Sonia Arcos / Shutterstock.com

Xavi, now a free agent after parting ways with Barcelona, has long been linked to a Premier League move. Though Guardiola could help ease his former protégé into the job, his rocky tenure at Barça and the pressure of succeeding Pep may make this a tough fit.

10. Xabi Alonso – 25/1

Xabi Alonso’s stock has skyrocketed after leading Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title. Now managing Real Madrid, prising him away from the Bernabéu would be near-impossible — but his style and success make him a dream long-term target for City.

9. Julian Nagelsmann – 20/1

Currently managing Germany’s national team, Julian Nagelsmann has long been one of football’s most innovative minds. Though his contract runs through 2028, a return to club football — especially with a squad like City’s — could eventually lure him back.

8. Mikel Arteta – 20/1

Mikel Arteta’s history at City and friendship with Guardiola make him a natural fit, but his success at Arsenal complicates the story. While a return could appeal in the future, a move to a direct title rival seems unlikely in the short term.

7. Roberto De Zerbi – 20/1

After impressing at Brighton and now challenging PSG with Marseille, Roberto De Zerbi’s star continues to rise. His bold, attacking style and Premier League experience could make him a popular choice, though he’d need to hit the ground running.

6. Zinedine Zidane – 20/1

Zinedine Zidane is one of the most successful managers of the modern era, with three straight Champions League titles to his name. However, his limited English and long-term desire to manage France suggest City may not be his next stop.

5. Luis Enrique – 12/1

Luis Enrique has led PSG to Champions League glory and could be tempted by the challenge of managing in England. While under contract until 2026, his proven pedigree and Guardiola-esque style would make him a compelling candidate for the City job.

4. Pep Lijnders – 8/1

Pep Lijnders’ move to City as Guardiola’s assistant shocked many, especially Liverpool fans. Despite a poor stint at Salzburg, he could be viewed as a short-term solution, learning under Pep while preparing to take the reins — much like Arteta once did.

3. Vincent Kompany – 6/1

Vincent Kompany has silenced critics with an impressive turnaround at Bayern Munich, where he’s already claimed a Bundesliga title and opened the new season with 16 straight wins. A return to the Etihad would be a sentimental and exciting move for both fans and the club.

2. Andoni Iraola – 7/2

Andoni Iraola has transformed Bournemouth into one of the Premier League’s most exciting teams, despite regular squad changes. With his contract ending next summer and an eye-catching style of play, he’s a serious contender for the City job.

1. Michel – 3/1

Currently leading Girona — a City Football Group club — Michel has emerged as the favourite to replace Guardiola. His dynamic style and familiarity with the CFG model make him a logical and strategic appointment, potentially extending City’s dominance under a new era.