Hugo Viana to Replace Txiki Begiristain as Man City’s Director of Football

• Manchester City announced Txiki Begiristain will leave as director of football after 12 years, with Hugo Viana set to succeed him
• Begiristain played a crucial role in bringing Pep Guardiola to City, contributing to the club’s success, including six Premier League titles

Manchester City has announced that Txiki Begiristain will step down as the club’s director of football at the end of the season, with Sporting Lisbon’s Hugo Viana set to take over the role.

After 12 successful years at the Etihad Stadium, Begiristain will depart following City’s summer participation in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Hugo Viana will officially assume his new role in the summer of 2025 but will work closely with Begiristain beforehand to ensure a smooth transition.

Manchester City said in a statement, “We look forward to paying tribute to Txiki’s outstanding contribution to Manchester City at the end of the season.”

Begiristain, who joined City in 2012 after a similar role at Barcelona, is credited with playing a key role in bringing Pep Guardiola to the club in 2016.

The two Spaniards had developed a close relationship during their playing days at Barcelona in the 1990s, and Begiristain gave Guardiola his first managerial role at the Catalan club.

Under the duo’s leadership, Manchester City has entered a golden era, winning six Premier League titles and the club’s first-ever Champions League trophy, among other honors.

Begiristain’s departure also raises questions about Guardiola’s future at City, as his contract expires at the end of this season. The 53-year-old has yet to sign an extension, and his long-term plans remain unclear after hinting that his time in England could end.