- Pep Guardiola’s future remains under heavy scrutiny
- Former Man City captain has been linked with Etihad job
- Rival club issues firm stance
Manchester City could soon face one of the biggest decisions of their modern era as uncertainty continues to surround Pep Guardiola’s future at the Etihad Stadium.
The final week of the season has already brought about disappointment for Man City supporters, as the Premier League title race ended with an underwhelming draw against Bournemouth on Tuesday.
Guardiola refused to clarify his next step publicly after the game, following rumours of an early departure. Likewise, this has only intensified attention around the Etihad Stadium.
With the Catalan likely to leave prematurely, multiple names have been suggested to replace the FA Cup winner. However, not all of them are available for a job in Manchester, as many remain employed.
Bayern Munich send clear Vincent Kompany message to Manchester City
In an interview with SportBild, Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer firmly ruled out the prospect of Vincent Kompany’s departure from Bavaria.
The 40-year-old has had a successful career as a manager up until now, and City Football Group is likely keen on bringing him on board.
However, when Hainer was asked about a possible looming City, the CEO of the Adidas group said, “They’re welcome to,” while laughing it off.
The businessman added, “With players, it’s often said: not for sale. And there’s no transfer fee for Kompany; he’s not for sale.”
Hainer also pointed to Kompany’s contract, which runs till 2029. Furthermore, the president denied having extended it to get ahead of Man City.
Kompany could be revisited in the future
Despite pushing Kompany out of the market, Hainer made it clear that the Belgian might end up at the Etihad in the future.
The manager’s football identity is similar to Guardiola’s, making him an easy fit in City’s culture. Kompany values controlled possession, structured build-up, high pressing, positional discipline and attacking dominance.
His rise started after he helped Burnley win the Championship in the 2022/23 season. The Belgian also helped Bayern Munich win the Bundesliga for two consecutive seasons following his arrival.
Likewise, City can revisit his appointment in the future when they need a new gaffer. For now, though, the Belgian seems out of reach considering Bayern’s stance.
Kompany stance only strengthens Enzo Maresca expectation
While Kompany might not be City’s solution today, former assistant boss Enzo Maresca stands as the frontrunner for the role.
With official confirmation of Guardiola’s departure still on hold, many suggest that Maresca already has a verbal agreement in place with Man City.
Likewise, Xabi Alonso is also out of the market. The Spaniard joined Chelsea this month following the sacking of Liam Rosenior in April.
That leaves Maresca as the most probable option for City following Guardiola’s departure. The Italian offers tactical continuity and is used to the club’s atmosphere, making him one of the best choices.
