OFFICIAL: Manchester City Director of Football Txiki Begiristain leaves

Manchester City Director of Football Txiki Begiristain has left the Premier League outfit after 13 years and will be succeeded by Sporting's Hugo Viana, the club announced on Thursday.

The 60-year-old Spaniard has been a major part of a trophy-laden period for City during which they won seven Premier League titles, two FA Cups, a Champions League and a Club World Cup.

Begiristain previously served as Barcelona's Director of Football for seven years until 2010.

His departure from the Etihad has raised questions about manager Pep Guardiola's future at the club.

Begiristain and Guardiola have worked closely together at City. The 54-year-old Guardiola's current contract ends after this season and the Spaniard's plans remain uncertain.

Club statement:

Txiki Begiristain has officially departed his role as Director of Football at Manchester City following 13 incredible years at the Club.

He announced in October 2024 he would be leaving City with Hugo Viana taking over the role full-time this summer, and the time has now come for Begiristain to leave City.  

Begiristain joined the Club in 2012 and has been a major part of a remarkable trophy-laden period for City.  

Indeed, under Txiki’s watch, City have won 21 major trophies, including seven Premier League titles, two FA Cups, one Champions League, one FIFA Club World Cup and one UEFA Super Cup.  

And his vast achievements during his time at the Etihad Stadium will be celebrated with a number of events in his honour surrounding the Manchester derby. 

The former Spain international will be the special guest for the game against Manchester United on 14 September and it will be an opportunity to pay tribute to his commitment, hard work and visionary abilities in the transfer market.