After an illustrious 13-year tenure, Txiki Begiristain has officially stepped down as Manchester City’s Director of Football, marking the end of a transformative chapter in the club’s history. His departure signals the conclusion of an era that saw City rise from ambitious contenders to a global footballing superpower, with Begiristain playing a pivotal role behind the scenes.
A Visionary Architect of Success
Begiristain, a former Barcelona player and executive, arrived at Manchester City in 2012, a time when the club was still establishing itself among Europe’s elite. His appointment, alongside Ferran Soriano (CEO), was part of a strategic move to implement Barcelona’s successful model of long-term planning, youth development, and high-precision recruitment.
Under his leadership, City underwent a complete footballing revolution. His philosophy was clear: build a squad capable of dominating domestically while competing for the biggest trophies in Europe. His expertise in player recruitment, contract negotiations, and squad planning was instrumental in assembling one of the most formidable teams in modern football.
Mastermind Behind Historic Transfers
Begiristain’s transfer strategy was methodical and forward-thinking. He prioritized technical, versatile players who fit Pep Guardiola’s possession-based system, ensuring seamless transitions between managers. Some of his most iconic signings include:
Kevin De Bruyne (2015) – A then-club-record signing who became the heartbeat of City’s midfield.
Rúben Dias (2020) – A transformative defensive leader who solidified City’s backline.
Erling Haaland (2022) – A generational striker who shattered records in his debut season.
Bernardo Silva, Rodri, and Ederson – All crucial pieces in City’s dominance.
Beyond marquee signings, Begiristain also excelled in selling players at peak value, ensuring financial sustainability. His ability to negotiate deals like Raheem Sterling’s and Gabriel Jesus’ exits while maintaining squad depth was a hallmark of his tenure.
The Trophy Haul: A Legacy of Dominance
Under Begiristain’s guidance, Manchester City won 21 major trophies, including:
7 Premier League titles (including historic Centurion and Treble-winning campaigns)
2 FA Cups
6 EFL Cups
1 UEFA Champions League (2023, finally conquering Europe)
1 FIFA Club World Cup
1 UEFA Super Cup
Perhaps his greatest achievement was overseeing the 2022-23 Treble—winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in a single season, a feat that cemented City’s place among football’s all-time great clubs.
Building Beyond the First Team: The Academy Revolution
Begiristain didn’t just focus on the senior squad—he was instrumental in rebuilding City’s youth system. The City Football Academy (CFA), opened in 2014, became a production line for elite talent, with graduates like Phil Foden, Rico Lewis, and Cole Palmer breaking into the first team. His emphasis on player development ensured that City remained competitive while complying with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
The Guardiola-Begiristain Partnership
One of the most successful director-manager relationships in football history was between Begiristain and Pep Guardiola. The two had previously worked together at Barcelona, and their reunion at City in 2016 was a turning point. Begiristain’s ability to deliver the players Guardiola needed—whether a ball-playing goalkeeper (Ederson) or a midfield metronome (Rodri)—was crucial in executing Guardiola’s tactical vision.
A Smooth Transition: Hugo Viana Takes Over
Begiristain announced his departure in October 2024, allowing for a seamless handover to his successor, Hugo Viana, the former sporting director at Benfica. Viana, known for his data-driven approach and shrewd recruitment, faces the challenge of maintaining City’s dominance in a post-Begiristain era.
The End of an Era, But a Lasting Legacy
As Begiristain departs, his impact on Manchester City is immeasurable. He didn’t just build a team—he built an entire footballing structure designed for sustained success. From scouting networks to academy investments, his fingerprints are all over the club’s rise.
Fans and pundits alike will remember him as the quiet genius behind City’s golden age. While his successor has big shoes to fill, Begiristain leaves behind a club stronger, smarter, and more successful than ever before.
The Etihad will forever be grateful. Txiki’s legacy? A dynasty built to last.
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