Who could succeed Guardiola at Man City?

Manchester City Coach

Pep Guardiola said last Friday Manchester City "must be prepared" to plan for his departure, as he would "not be here eternally".

The 54-year-old has redefined English football during his nine years in the Premier League, winning the title six times as well as the Champions League.

But there will come a day when the Spaniard calls it quits at City, a decision which will leave players, staff and supporters without the services of a man who will go down as one of the greatest managers in history.

No-one knows when Guardiola will step down and whether he will see out the 18 months left on his contract, but it is understood City have started the process of identifying candidates to replace him.

At least two candidates have already been identified, though there has been no confirmation of any names as things stand.

City's sporting director Hugo Viana is likely to lead the search for the next man in, who will have the toughest of tasks in following in the footsteps of the all-conquering Guardiola.

Club chiefs can start by looking in the Premier League where there are standout candidates capable of stepping up to one of the biggest jobs in world football.

Let's start with Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who said last week a report linking him with City was "100% speculation".

The Italian has had a successful time at Stamford Bridge in winning the Club World Cup, but has been outspoken in recent weeks about not feeling supported by those upstairs and the need to bring in more experience in the playing staff.

Maresca will be familiar with decision-makers at Etihad Stadium having worked as assistant to Guardiola during the 2022-23 campaign.

City may also look elsewhere.

Unai Emery has done a sterling job in leading Aston Villa from the edge of the relegation spots back into Europe and title contention this season, three points adrift of league leaders Arsenal.

Andoni Iraola will also have suitors after leading unfancied Bournemouth to a ninth-placed finish last season.

Austrian Oliver Glasner is out of contract at Crystal Palace in the summer and his side stunned City in the FA Cup final last season, while Englishman Eddie Howe also ended Newcastle's long wait for a major trophy by winning the EFL Cup last season.