Overview
- The Telegraph's report, echoed by multiple outlets, says City have scoped Alonso, Maresca and Fàbregas in case Guardiola leaves at season’s end.
- Club sources push back, describing talk of an exit and succession planning as "pure speculation."
- City’s recent 2-2 draw at Tottenham and a six-point gap to Arsenal are cited as factors intensifying scrutiny of the manager and squad.
- Alonso is available after a short Real Madrid stint, Maresca was dismissed by Chelsea and confirmed prior talks with City, and Fàbregas has impressed with Como in Serie A.
- No appointment is imminent, though coverage notes rival expectations about a summer exit and recalls Guardiola’s past remarks about stopping after this stage of his career.