Manchester City find Erling Haaland’s successor, England dream of Pep Guardiola
Manchester City sets sights on the new Haaland, Pep Guardiola rumor drives England crazy, extension operation at Barça : find the latest information from the European sports press in your Foot Mercato press review.
Manchester City has reason to worry about the uncertain future of Erling Haaland. The Norwegian’s name has been heavily linked with Spain, especially with Barcelona, which dreams of signing him. In response to this rumor, the English club’s management has been proactive in finding his replacement, should their star striker leave. And according to A Bola, his successor has already been identified, often referred to as the « new Haaland. » It is none other than Sporting Portugal’s rising star, Viktor Gyökeres. According to the Portuguese media, Sporting will be willing to let their prolific striker go starting next January for a hefty sum of €100M. Now, the focus shifts to what Haaland plans for his future.
In England, two days after the victory against Finland, the focus is on the future national team coach. While Lee Carsley is doing a decent job as interim manager, the English Football Association is actively searching for a long-term coach. After names like Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Eddie Howe, the Daily Star reports on its front page that Pep Guardiola is now being considered.
The Manchester City coach is seen as a dream candidate to become England’s next manager. According to the Daily Mail, the FA has approached the Catalan coach about the possibility of taking over when his £18 million-per-year contract with Manchester City expires next summer. This information is also confirmed by the Daily Mirror. In the UK, there is strong belief in this possibility, especially since Guardiola left the door open when discussing his future on Italian television this past weekend, stating: « Anything can happen ».
Barça launches its major extension operation, as headlined by the newspaper Sport. The Catalan media reports that the club has initiated talks to extend the contracts of Gavi, Pedri, and Araujo, whose current deals expire in 2026.
Internally, these players are seen as essential, and there is a sense of optimism as all three are reportedly keen to continue their adventure with the club. As for the first two, it’s not surprising, as they are seen as the faces of La Masia. However, for the Uruguayan defender, it’s somewhat of a twist, as he was recently linked with transfer rumors suggesting a move to Bayern Munich.
