Danny Mills warns former club Manchester City of how damaging the impact could be when Pep Guardiola finally decides to leave the club
Pep Guardiola
Manchester City bosses should be dreading the day Pep Guardiola decides to leave
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Manchester City have been told that Pep Guardiola leaving the Etihad will be like when Sir Alex Ferguson stood down as United boss. Fergie retired back in 2013 after winning one final Premier League title.
But his departure coincided with a serious decline in United's fortunes. Since Fergie rode into the sunset, United have not been crowned English champions or come remotely close to winning the Champions League.
Guardiola is under contract at the Etihad until 2027 and will complete a decade's service before the start of next season. The Spaniard has said he has no plans to stand down - and could continue in his role until 2035. But club bosses know the Spaniard will call time on his incredible spell in charge at some stage.
And former City defender Danny Mills reckons the impact of him leaving will be similar to when Fergie left United.
"It’s going to be very difficult to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City," Mills told BetWright. "He’s brought such a unique style of play and coaching, which has been embedded in the club for almost a decade.
"The owners will have to consider whether they want to maintain that style, or move to a 'win at all costs' mentality, and totally rebrand. Up until a few seasons ago, I would've suggested Mikel Arteta as a potential replacement for Pep, but that obviously won't happen now given what he’s achieved and built at Arsenal.
"A lot depends on when Guardiola leaves the club, and who is available to replace him. "I don't think the managerial role will be in high demand - it could be considered as a lose-lose situation for whoever succeeds Pep.
"When David Moyes replaced Sir Alex Ferguson, he was never going to replicate the success of the past, but the expectation was there.
"It’s highly unlikely that anyone will be able to better Pep's achievements, so it's going to be very difficult for the club and succeeding manager."
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