Manchester City will never be the same again. But part of Pep Guardiola’s incredible legacy he leaves behind should ensure that the drop-off may not be as cataclysmic as many believe it will be.
City’s unrelenting pursuit of trophies often ensures their exorbitant growth off the pitch is overlooked. When Guardiola came in, he arrived to work as part of a winning team of senior figures, alongside chief executive Ferran Soriano and director of football Txiki Begiristain. From the start, the trio went about revolutionising the club in all areas.
What Guardiola has helped create will stand the test of time. While on the face of it, Enzo Maresca seems like an underwhelming successor, sources have told The i Paper that the whole point of bringing the former City assistant coach in over a bigger name is that he understands the journey the club is on and will ensure continuity in all departments.
The i Paper understands CEO Soriano, who has been instrumental in making City the global behemoth it has become, plans to stay put. That will make the transition process as smooth as possible.
City’s impressive sales pitch to potential signings has been consistent for years. According to one agent who has listened to City’s message recently, it can be summed up in a few words: “You are joining a world-class, elite club that is not going anywhere.”
