Manchester City are preparing for life after Pep Guardiola, whether he wants them to or not.
Football Insider reports the club are "resigned" to the Spaniard leaving at the end of this season, despite being contracted until 2027. Decision-makers at the Etihad are already assessing replacements, with Guardiola himself expected to have a say in who succeeds him.
The early frontrunner is Enzo Maresca, the former City coach who guided Chelsea to the Premier League title last season. Xabi Alonso and PSG's Luis Enrique are also under consideration — both fit the passing-based philosophy Guardiola has embedded at the club over a decade.
Guardiola has not confirmed he will leave. His public line remains unchanged: "I have a contract." But his body language this season, City's elimination from the Champions League by Real Madrid, and nine points behind Arsenal in the Premier League have all fuelled the speculation. He said previously he will "stop" after City — no other club, possibly a national team.
The Carabao Cup win over Arsenal on Sunday was his fifth League Cup title, a record. It may prove to be his last trophy at the Etihad.
