Liverpool learns Pep Guardiola's decision on Man City future after trusted aide stands down

Pep Guardiola's decision regarding his future at will not be influenced by the departure of Txiki Begiristain as the club's director of football.

Begiristain has been a key figure at the Etihad since 2012, predating arrival, but has confirmed he will step down from his role at the end of the season. The 60-year-old has outstayed his original plan to retire at 55.

Guardiola, who also faces a decision over his own future with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, arrived under Begiristain's stewardship. Despite their close relationship, Begiristain's exit will not sway Guardiola's decision,

The pair enjoyed a successful partnership at Barcelona before reuniting for a second stint in England.

Guardiola has previously expressed his admiration for his director of football, who has been instrumental in his Premier League success. He said: "Txiki has been massively important at this club. He was here before I arrived and was stable in the club. He has been really important in these years and part of the enormous success we've had in terms of results and many things, he has been so important.

"I do ask him to take responsibility with the media, talk a bit, but he's so shy. He wants to be behind the scenes so all the shots and the weapons are directed to me. But it was the same in Barcelona. He's a close friend and we've known each other 25 or 30 years. He's calm and that balance helps us work perfectly together."

It is claimed that City has already pinpointed Begiristain's successor, who is tipped to start early in 2025, allowing for a six-month transition period to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.

Guardiola has recently etched his name in football history by clinching the Premier League title four times in a row, a feat no other manager has managed in English football. Not only that, but during his tenure at Manchester, he's become the solitary figure to secure the treble twice over.

In the aftermath of City's latest title triumph last May, Pep hinted that this might be his swansong season as the manager. Having invested almost nine years with the cluba more extended period than any of his past engagementshe did, however, express in the pre-season that there's yet to be a final word on where his future lies.