Manchester City Eye Xabi Alonso as Potential Guardiola Successor – Reports
Manchester City have reportedly identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso as a surprise candidate to replace Pep Guardiola. The reigning Premier League champions are evaluating their managerial options following an underwhelming season by their high standards.
Guardiola, who has guided City to an unprecedented four consecutive Premier League titles and a historic treble in 2022-23, now finds his position under scrutiny. His team has struggled this season, raising concerns about the club’s long-term direction.
According to German outlet BILD (via @footballespana_ on X), Alonso has emerged as a leading contender for the role. The Spanish tactician has earned widespread praise for his impact at Bayer Leverkusen, transforming the club in just 18 months. Under his leadership, Leverkusen secured the 2023-24 Bundesliga title without suffering a single defeat—a feat Guardiola has yet to achieve in England. Alonso also led his team to DFB Pokal glory and reached the UEFA Europa League final in the same campaign.
Although Guardiola extended his contract with City earlier this season, his future remains uncertain, particularly after their early exit from the UEFA Champions League. Currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, City risk missing out on next season’s Champions League, further fueling speculation about a managerial change.
Real Madrid have also been monitoring Alonso as a potential successor to Carlo Ancelotti. However, Manchester City may look to act swiftly to secure the Spaniard’s services. Given Alonso’s previous experience in English football with Liverpool, he may be open to a managerial return to the Premier League.
Manchester City Secure FA Cup Quarterfinal Spot After Overcoming Early Setback
Manchester City booked their place in the FA Cup quarterfinals with a 3-1 victory over Plymouth Argyle on March 1, despite an initial scare. Pep Guardiola’s men had to come from behind to keep their hopes of silverware alive this season.
Plymouth, who had stunned Liverpool in the previous round, took a shock lead in the 38th minute through Maksym Talovierov. However, City responded quickly, with young left-back Nico O’Reilly heading in an equalizer just before halftime.
O’Reilly struck again in the 76th minute, nodding home his second goal of the night to put City in front. Kevin De Bruyne then sealed the victory in stoppage time, finishing off a well-placed assist from Erling Haaland.
With this win, City progress to the last eight of the FA Cup as they aim to salvage their season with a trophy.
