Pep Guardiola has shockingly become the second favorite to leave his position among Premier League managers following Manchester City’s dismal form.
A dramatic 2-1 loss in the Manchester derby on Sunday compounded City’s woes and increased speculation about the manager’s future.
The weekend also saw Wolves and Southampton sack their managers, Gary O’Neil and Russell Martin, respectively, as the Premier League enters the critical Christmas period. These latest dismissals mean 20% of top-flight clubs have parted ways with their managers this season.
City’s struggles have been staggering. Guardiola’s men have managed just one win in their last 11 matches across all competitions, suffering eight defeats. Their latest setback leaves them nine points behind league leaders Liverpool, having played a game more.
Manchester City’s current form is the joint-fewest in the division along with Southampton., with a points-per-game average of just 0.57. The dramatic decline has seen bookmakers slash odds on Guardiola leaving before the season ends, with some offering 7/1 odds for his departure.
Sky Bet currently lists Julen Lopetegui as the leading candidate in the sack race at 2/5, followed by Guardiola. Other names in contention include Ange Postecoglou and Sean Dyche, both priced at 10/1, while Eddie Howe is at 16/1.
With City’s slump showing no signs of reversing, speculation will continue to mount as fans and pundits alike question whether Guardiola can turn things around or if his time at The Etihad is nearing its end.
