While Manchester City's immediate focus remains on chasing another historic treble, the club's long-term planning is quietly taking shape behind the scenes. With Pep Guardiola's future beyond this season still undecided, the Blues are developing a contingency shortlist for one of the most coveted jobs in world football.

The club's clear preference is for Guardiola to see through the squad rebuild he began last summer. However, with his contract expiring in 2027 and a decision expected by the end of May, sporting director Txiki Begiristain is conducting due diligence on several exciting candidates.

According to reports, Bournemouth's impressive manager Andoni Iraola is highly admired within the Etihad hierarchy. The Spaniard has turned heads with his progressive, high-pressing style at the Vitality Stadium, making him a compelling candidate to potentially continue City's attacking philosophy.

He is not alone on the radar. The club has also held discussions with former City coach Enzo Maresca, who is currently thriving at Leicester City. Meanwhile, two other names frequently linked with the role are Bayer Leverkusen's title-winning mastermind Xabi Alonso and Burnley's Vincent Kompany—a club legend whose deep understanding of City's culture makes him a sentimental favorite.

For now, the dressing room remains focused on the present, with Guardiola at the helm for a critical season finale. But as the managerial carousel begins to spin, all signs point to Manchester City preparing for a seamless transition, whenever the day comes to bid farewell to a modern-era icon.