Former Manchester City and Bayern Munich midfielder Dietmar Hamann believes that one of the world best managers is the leading contender to take over from Pep Guardiola when the Spaniard eventually steps down at the Etihad Stadium.
Hamann said Vincent Kompany could succeed Guardiola. The Belgian, who captained City during their rise to domestic dominance, has impressed in management since leaving playing behind — and claimed that his former teammate’s achievements make him the “most likely” successor to Guardiola.
“They probably have two or three contenders once Pep Guardiola leaves. I’d be very surprised if Vincent Kompany wasn’t one of them,” Hamann told reporters.
“At the moment, it’s probably the most likely scenario that when Pep does leave, Kompany takes over, depending on when that is. Obviously, it’s always a matter of timing, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it does end up there.”
A natural heir to Guardiola’s legacy at Manchester City
Kompany’s bond with Manchester City runs deep. During his 11-year spell at the club, he helped deliver four Premier League titles and eight other major trophies, establishing himself as one of the key figures in City’s transformation into a football powerhouse.
His leadership and intelligence on the pitch made him a fan favourite and a respected figure within the dressing room — qualities that Hamann believes would translate seamlessly to the dugout.
While Guardiola’s reign has brought unprecedented success — including a historic treble last season — the club knows that succession planning is vital.
Vincent Kompany could succeed Guardiola as he appears to fit both the footballing and emotional profile that City might one day seek in a new manager.
The 39-year-old is currently thriving at Bayern Munich, where he guided the Bavarian giants to the Bundesliga title in his debut season.
His side’s high-energy pressing and commitment to possession-based football have drawn comparisons with Guardiola’s own tactical blueprint, suggesting that City’s identity could be preserved under his stewardship.
The idea of Kompany returning to Manchester would not just be about sentiment. His managerial career is quickly gathering pace, and his record speaks volumes.
Before taking charge in Munich, he led Burnley to the Championship title in dominant fashion, reshaping their style of play and earning widespread admiration for his innovative approach.
Since joining Bayern, he has maintained that upward trajectory. His team has won 16 of their opening 17 matches this season, with their only dropped points coming in a 1–1 draw against Union Berlin.
That consistency has not gone unnoticed across Europe, further enhancing his reputation as one of the game’s brightest young coaches.
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Hamann believes that this combination of proven success and emotional connection makes Kompany an obvious fit for City once Guardiola’s era draws to a close.
“When you hire a former player as manager, it can sometimes be regarded as a decision ruled by the heart rather than the head,” Hamann noted. “But Kompany’s managerial record is outstanding.”
Indeed, the idea of a homecoming would appeal to both parties. Kompany recently extended his contract at Bayern, but the lure of returning to the club where he made his name could prove too strong to resist — especially if the timing aligns with Guardiola’s departure.
While no official discussions have taken place, and Guardiola’s contract runs until 2027, speculation around the next chapter of Manchester City’s project continues to swirl.
For now, Kompany’s focus remains on maintaining Bayern’s blistering form in Germany. But as Hamann suggests, destiny may yet bring him back to Manchester — not as captain this time, but as the man entrusted to carry forward Guardiola’s extraordinary legacy.
