Begiristain to Leave Man City, Viana Named Successor

Manchester City has confirmed that Txiki Begiristain will step down as the club's director of football at the end of the 2024/25 season after a successful 12-year tenure. Under Begiristain’s leadership, City has won multiple Premier League titles and other major trophies, and he was instrumental in recruiting Pep Guardiola as manager. Hugo Viana, currently the sporting director at Sporting Lisbon, has been chosen to succeed him, following a successful period at Sporting that included two Primeira Liga titles. A six-month transition period is planned to ensure a smooth handover. Begiristain's departure raises questions about Guardiola's future at the club, as the two have a long-standing professional and personal relationship. However, it is reported that Guardiola was aware of Begiristain’s decision and his own future remains unresolved with his contract expiring at the end of the season.