Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith believes Manchester City could fall behind both Arsenal and Liverpool in next season’s Premier League title race as uncertainty grows over life after Pep Guardiola.
City are expected to enter a new era at the Etihad Stadium, with Enzo Maresca strongly linked with succeeding Guardiola.
The possible managerial transition, alongside expected squad changes, has created questions about whether the Cityzens can maintain the dominance they have shown over recent years.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Man City News, courtesy of Best Betting Sites UK, Smith predicted City would finish third in the table behind Arsenal and Liverpool.
“I’ve got to go for Arsenal to retain it for the first time since the 1930s. So Arsenal first, I think Liverpool might recover depending on the manager, so Liverpool second, Man City third, Man United fourth and Villa fifth.”
While City supporters have become accustomed to competing for league titles under Guardiola, Smith’s prediction reflects growing uncertainty around the club’s immediate future.
A third-place finish would still represent a strong campaign for many clubs, but at Manchester City it could be viewed as a step backwards considering the standards set over the past decade.
Questions over the next chapter at the Etihad
Arsenal are aiming to build on their recent success after finally ending years of frustration in the title race, but history has shown how difficult it can be to remain at the top.
Liverpool’s dramatic decline after winning the league in 2024 is often used as an example of how quickly fortunes can change in English football.
One of Guardiola’s greatest achievements at City has been the consistency his side maintained season after season. Even during difficult periods, the club rarely drifted far from the top of the table and regularly challenged for major honours.
That consistency may now face its biggest test. Reports linking Bernardo Silva and John Stones with exits have added to concerns about the squad’s long-term stability, while uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s future has increased pressure on the club’s recruitment plans.
Director of Football Hugo Viana is expected to play a major role in shaping the next phase of the team.
If Maresca does take charge, City’s hierarchy will need to ensure he inherits a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
Despite the doubts, there are signs that preparations for the future are already underway. Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has emerged as a leading transfer target, with City reportedly confident of winning the race for his signature.
The youngster is viewed as a player who could become a central figure in midfield for years to come.
Transfer plans already taking shape
City are also expected to strengthen in other areas before the start of the new campaign.
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Brazilian winger Savinho continues to attract interest from Tottenham, and the club may need to identify a replacement if negotiations progress further.
Changes could also arrive in goal. James Trafford has been linked with a move away, meaning City are likely to explore options for another goalkeeper during the summer transfer window.
Much of the focus, however, remains on how the club adapts to a possible future without Guardiola.
Since arriving in 2016, the Spaniard has transformed City into one of Europe’s dominant forces, winning multiple Premier League titles and establishing a style of football admired across the game.
Replacing a manager of Guardiola’s influence would never be straightforward. Even if Maresca arrives with knowledge of the club’s philosophy after previously working within City’s coaching setup, expectations will remain exceptionally high.
