Pep Guardiola’s successor at Manchester City might emerge from a pool of players familiar to Premier League enthusiasts, according to insights from Michael Owen.
Guardiola, having achieved notable success at Bayern Munich, has propelled Manchester City to unprecedented heights, marked by a historic 2022–2023 season, clinching five trophies, including a third consecutive Premier League title and their inaugural UEFA Champions League trophy.
As Guardiola’s current contract at Etihad expires after the 2024–2025 season, questions loom over the future objectives for the Catalan maestro and whether the recent triumphs signify the beginning of the end for him at the helm of the team.
Speculation arises as Michael Owen suggests that Roberto De Zerbi, a manager highly esteemed by Guardiola, could be a potential successor at the Etihad Stadium. Expressing his opinion to the Premier League, Owen envisions that Manchester City might consider Brighton & Hove Albion’s coach when Guardiola decides to move on.
“People will certainly be considering Pep Guardiola as a potential manager for a major club if they lose their current one or part ways with him,” Owen stated. Acknowledging Brighton’s astute approach to acquisitions and managerial appointments, Owen believes they invest considerable effort in the hiring process, ensuring they have a successor in mind for future transitions.
Reflecting on Guardiola’s encounters with Roberto De Zerbi, the Italian manager has faced the Catalan three times, suffering two defeats and securing a draw. In their most recent clash, Guardiola emerged victorious with a 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium in a Premier League fixture.
The notion of De Zerbi potentially taking over from Guardiola raises intriguing possibilities for Manchester City’s future. As Guardiola’s legacy unfolds, the prospect of a successor emerging from within the Premier League player ranks adds an element of anticipation to the narrative of the renowned football club.
The evolving dynamics at Etihad Stadium, post-Guardiola, could see De Zerbi stepping into a prominent role, bringing his managerial prowess to the Premier League powerhouse.
