An end of an era looms over the Etihad, while a new one awaits as Manchester City has reportedly struck a deal with Hugo Viana from Sporting Lisbon to take over Txiki Begiristain’s positon as the Director of Football after the 2024/25 season.
Begiristain joined City in 2012 and played a key role in the appointment of Pep Guardiola as manager four years later. The 60-year-old has played a pivotal part in City’s rise, shaping them into Premier League powerhouses and establishing them as one of Europe’s elite teams over the past decade alongisde Guardiola.
Manchester City’s new director of football will be Portuguese director Hugo Viana! Exclusive story, confirmed.As revealed on Tuesday, Viana was on top of City list and the agreement is now completed.
Viana leaves Sporting to replace Txiki Begiristain at #MCFC from 2025. pic.twitter.com/VnCi24LhYD
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 11, 2024
Under Txiki’s watchful eye, City has clinched six of the last seven Premier League titles, as well as triumphing in various competitions including the Champions League, the FA Cup, the Carabao Cup, and the Club World Cup.
It was revealed earlier this week that Begiristain, who has been a cornerstone of City’s success since his arrival in 2012, will be stepping down.
The Daily Mail has reported that after an extensive search, they have reached an agreement with the former Newcastle midfielder to take the reins next summer.
It is now anticipated that former Braga and Newcastle midfielder Viana will begin his new role in early 2025, to also allow for a comprehensive handover period under Begiristain himself.
City are yet to officially confirm the appointment, but it all seems to be a matter of formality now.
The timing of Begiristain’s departure is particularly notable, as it coincides with Guardiola’s contract expiring at the end of the season.
Guardiola has overseen an unprecedented period of success since taking over at City, including winning a record four straight English league titles most notably.
In total, Guardiola has won 15 major trophies in his eight seasons at the club.
City is already the longest job he has had in management, having spent four years at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich.
Viana’s pending arrival at City brings Ruben Amorim into the conversation when it comes to finding a successor for Guardiola.
(with agency inputs)
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