Premier League champions Manchester City have secured a deal with Sporting’s Hugo Viana to succeed Txiki Begiristain as the club’s new director of football.
Begiristain, who is renowned for his exceptional sporting directorship will depart the Etihad Stadium at the end of the current season.
Meanwhile, former Newcastle United midfielder Hugo Viana has impressed with his six-year stint at Sporting, collaborating with manager Ruben Amorim to achieve remarkable success.
Under his guidance, Sporting have clinched two of the last four Portuguese titles and currently tops the league with eight consecutive victories since Viana took charge in 2018.
Fabrizio Romano Confirms Hugo Viana’s appointment
Respected transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news on October 11, stating that Viana will replace Begiristain in 2025.
Romano wrote on his X account formerly Twitter: “Manchester City’s new director of football will be Portuguese director Hugo Viana! Exclusive story, confirmed.”
“As revealed on Tuesday, Viana was on top of City list and the agreement is now completed.”
Manchester City are aiming for a seamless transition with a six-month handover period alongside Begiristain.
Romano added: “Viana leaves Sporting to replace Txiki Begiristain at #MCFC from 2025.”
Interestingly, Viana’s move coincides with Manchester City’s upcoming Champions League group stage match against Sporting next month.
The 41-year-old’s appointment to the City Powerhouse is expected to be finalized before the Champions League encounter.
Hugo Viana and Guardiola Mark A New Chapter at Etihad Stadium
Viana’s appointment signals a significant shift in Manchester City’s leadership.
His experience and success at Sporting mixed with the ever-respected and successful tactician Pep Guardiola, poised to shape the club’s future.
However, manager Pep Guardiola‘s contract expires at the end of the season, leaving his future unresolved.
If the 53-year-old decides to extend his stay, it would mark the beginning of a new dawn at Manchester City.
Former Manchester City Director Of Football Begiristain’s Legacy
Txiki Begiristain’s departure concludes an illustrious tenure, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in Manchester City’s football operations.
Begiristain has been at the Etihad since 2012 and his contributions have been instrumental in the club’s success.
Throughout his time with Manchester City, they secured seven national championships and achieved the treble in the 2022-23 season.
Additionally, many of his fellow countrymen were recruited, as well as former teammate Pep Guardiola, who took on the role of manager at City.
What’s next for Hugo Viana and Manchester City?
Hugo Viana could start as soon as early 2025, working with Begiristain before the former Barcelona supremo exits Etihad Stadium at the end of the 2024/25 season.
For the Premier League Champions, they will play Wolves on Sunday, October 20 before hosting Sparta in the Champions League three days after.
As Viana assumes his new role, he faces the task of maintaining Manchester City’s dominance while navigating the complexities of the transfer market and Champions League competition.
What’s your take on the former Sporting director of football taking charge as the new Manchester City sports director?
Moreover, Do you believe Pep Guardiola will extend his contract with Manchester City and pave the way for collaboration between him and Viana? Please, share your thoughts with us in the comment box below:
