Erling Haaland casts doubt on Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City future
The Manchester City striker has suggested uncertainty surrounds his manager’s long-term plans despite a recent contract extension.
Erling Haaland has hinted that Pep Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City could conclude sooner than expected, admitting he feels lucky to have worked with the Catalan coach.
The Norway international has enjoyed a prolific spell under Guardiola since arriving at the Etihad Stadium in 2022.
Guardiola signed a two-year contract extension in November, ostensibly keeping him at the club until 2027.
However, speculation persists that the 54-year-old could depart as early as this summer.
Haaland addresses managerial uncertainty
Haaland has scored 153 goals in 184 appearances across all competitions for the Premier League champions.
While the forward has committed his own long-term future to the club, his recent comments to TNT Sports suggest the managerial situation remains fluid.
“When I talk about good people around me, it’s not just my friends but the people at the club,” Haaland said.
“I’m lucky to be at a club with so many good people, and with Pep, who pushes us every single day.”
The striker’s subsequent remarks appeared to acknowledge the possibility of change in the dugout.
“I’m lucky to have worked with Pep for three-and-a-half years,” he added.
“It’s been an amazing time, as we all know, and no matter what happens in the future, we still need to keep pushing.”
“I need to keep pushing myself, and others around me, to get better.”
Potential successors considered
With clarity regarding Guardiola’s intentions still elusive, City are reportedly monitoring potential replacements.
Enzo Maresca has been linked with a return to the club where he previously served as assistant manager.
The Italian coach moved to Leicester City in 2023 before taking charge at Chelsea.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso and Como head coach Cesc Fabregas have also been mentioned as possible candidates for the role.
However, former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney believes the club should look toward a familiar face currently managing in the Bundesliga.
“If Pep does go, they have to go and get [current Bayern Munich boss] Vincent Kompany,” Rooney stated.
“He knows the club, he has been successful with Bayern in a similar way. It looks like he has learned from Pep.”
Rooney also suggested that the current City boss would likely have a significant say in who eventually replaces him.
“Pep will probably choose the next manager,” Rooney added.
“If he is going, he will probably be part of the process to choose the next one.”