Manchester City have a ready-made replacement for Pep Guardiola lined up should the Spaniard choose to move on from the Etihad.

However, the 52-year-old won't be around forever and is widely expected to depart the club in 2025, upon the expiration of his contract.

But when the former Barcelona player and manager does choose to call time on his City career, they may have the perfect replacement in Michel Sanchez, who has led Girona to the summit of La Liga.

The Spanish side have been the league's surprise package this season, leading Real Madrid by three points in the standings.

And the club's sporting director, Quique Carcel, reckons Sanchez has all the capabilities to succeed Guardiola at the Etihad.

Speaking on Friday, Carcel said (quotes via Mundo Deportivo): "[Sanchez] has the talent to lead a big club like Manchester City [but] still needs time to get there to this type of benches.

"City plays football that Michel, with a smaller club, is being able to do. Although for him to train them, a lot of coordination has to happen, like Pep making the decision to leave.

"[He's] happy in the team, with a contract and with the desire to continue making the project great. The pressures in Girona are different from those he may have on a bigger bench."

Meanwhile, Girona midfielder Aleix Garcia revealed that Sanchez has been in "a lot of contact" with Guardiola through their connection at City Football Group, who own both City and Girona.

Speaking to Spanish outlet AS, Garcia explained: "Pep we all know who he is, what a great coach he is and everything he has won.

"Michel is trying with the City Group, with a lot of contact with Pep, to learn from him. He has brutal football concepts.

"And when you are comfortable in a club like Girona, where things are going well for you, it allows you to show your personality with the tranquillity that accompanies you outside."