Mannchester City ‘Watching’ Pep Guardiola Successor Option ‘Very Closely’ – Director Plays Down Exit Talk
The most widely-discussed option to succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City remains
fully integrated in his current club’s long-term planning, despite growing rumours linking him
with a future return to the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City’s strategic planning for a post-Guardiola era has become a recurring internal topic,
with senior Etihad officials closely studying potential successors long before the Catalan’s
2027 contract expiry. Several young coaches across Europe have been monitored, including
individuals with deep connections to City.
In recent weeks, most of the external speculation has focused on former club captain
Vincent Kompany. Many City supporters see him as the “natural” successor to Guardiola,
a sentiment strengthened by recent comments from ex-defender Bacary Sagna, who believes
Kompany’s emotional bond with the club makes him the “perfect fit”.
City’s Focus Remains on Guardiola’s Project
Despite the speculation, Manchester City remain fully committed to backing Guardiola’s project
through to at least 2027 — and possibly beyond. The club’s hierarchy continues to downplay
managerial gossip, insisting that Guardiola remains central to their long-term football model.
Behind the scenes, interest in City’s coaching future has intensified, particularly following the
arrival of Pepijn Lijnders into the coaching setup after his spell at RB Salzburg.
His influence has sparked further discussion around the evolving tactical identity of the club.
SportBILD: City Watching Kompany ‘Very Closely’
According to a report from German outlet SportBILD (via Sport Witness), Manchester City
are “watching Vincent Kompany very closely” as they evaluate potential long-term
successors for Pep Guardiola.
Kompany, now in charge of Bayern Munich, is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising
young managers. His leadership, tactical intelligence, and deep emotional link to Manchester City
naturally keep him on the club’s radar.
However, Bayern Munich director of football Max Eberl has dismissed suggestions that
Kompany could be tempted away anytime soon.
“We see Vincent Kompany working every day – and seeing it up close is even more impressive than
watching from the outside,” Eberl said.
“He senses that something is being built here, and he wants to be a part of it. He’s a perfect fit
for FC Bayern.”
Kompany’s Bayern Project and Long-Term Commitment
Kompany recently signed a long-term contract until 2029, embedding him deeply into
Bayern’s multi-year vision. His development at the German giants will remain of interest to Manchester City,
but any possible reunion will depend heavily on timing.
With Guardiola under contract until 2027 and publicly expressing happiness at the club, the window for
Kompany to return as manager may only open if managerial cycles align perfectly for both clubs.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Vincent Kompany the favourite to replace Pep Guardiola?
He is one of the names strongly admired by Manchester City due to his history, leadership, and coaching potential.
2. When does Guardiola’s contract expire?
His current Manchester City contract runs until 2027.
3. Is Kompany leaving Bayern Munich soon?
Unlikely. Bayern director Max Eberl insists Kompany is committed to the long-term project and recently extended his contract to 2029.
4. Who else is being considered as a future City manager?
City reportedly admire several young managers, including those within their coaching network like Pepijn Lijnders,
but no decision will be made before Guardiola’s contract nears its end.
Conclusion
Manchester City’s long-term planning naturally includes studying potential successors to Pep Guardiola,
with Vincent Kompany standing out as a sentimental and strategic option. However, Bayern Munich remain fully
committed to the Belgian coach and have no intention of letting him go anytime soon. With Guardiola settled
and contracted until 2027, City’s managerial future remains stable — and any possible Kompany reunion will
depend entirely on how the coming years unfold for both clubs.
