Txiki Begiristain Departs Role as Manchester City Director of Football

Txiki Begiristain has stepped down from his position as Director of Football at Manchester City, bringing an end to a 13-year tenure with the club.

Begiristain, 60, had announced in October 2024 that he would be leaving his post, and former Portugal international Hugo Viana is expected to assume the role ahead of the upcoming season.

Having joined City in 2012, Begiristain played a pivotal role in the club’s rise to domestic and European dominance. During his time at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City lifted 21 major trophies, including seven Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and their first-ever UEFA Champions League triumph.

The club is set to honour Begiristain’s immense contributions around the Manchester derby on 14 September, when he will be the special guest at the Etihad for the occasion.

Before his move to City, Begiristain served as Technical Director at FC Barcelona from 2003 to 2010, where he was instrumental during Pep Guardiola’s golden era at the Camp Nou. He continued that close collaboration with Guardiola at City, helping to build one of the most successful sides in English football history.

Reflecting on his departure, Guardiola expressed heartfelt sentiments about his long-time colleague and friend, stating:

“Part of me is leaving, I would say.

A friend of mine and one of the architects of one of the best teams ever from Barcelona, and now here.”