"Old habits die hard when winning becomes the norm, but sometimes key decisions are taken out of your hands. At the Etihad Stadium, there are clear signs of evolution. On the pitch, a host of new players have arrived, while stalwarts Kevin de Bruyne, Kyle Walker and Ederson have left. In the executive team, long-serving sporting director Txiki Begiristain has departed, and handed the reins to Hugo Viana."
"When Guardiola signed a new two-year contract in November 2024, the perceived doomsday scenario of his departure at the end of that season was prevented. At the time, the club's greatest ever manager had just over six months left on his contract. Now, there is no such urgency, with 18 months left on his deal. But that doesn't tell the full story."
The January transfer window brought encouragement at Manchester City as marquee signings demonstrated continued transfer-market power. New arrivals have joined the squad while long-serving players Kevin de Bruyne, Kyle Walker and Ederson have departed. Sporting director Txiki Begiristain left and handed responsibilities to Hugo Viana, signaling executive change. Pep Guardiola remains manager but faces growing uncertainty over his future despite signing a two-year contract extension in November 2024 that extends his deal by 18 months. The club still leverages Guardiola's aura when attracting players but recognizes that his influence is no longer as absolute.
Read at www.bbc.com
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