Who is Hugo Viana and what will be his role at Etihad? - Explained

Sporting Lisbon director of football Hugo Viana is the frontrunner to replace the outgoing Txiki Begiristain at Manchester City. The reigning Premier League champions are bracing to bid farewell to Begiristain, who is reportedly stepping down from his role as director of football at the end of the season.

Begiristain played a pivotal role in City's transformation into English football's dominant force since his arrival in 2012 and was instrumental in the hiring of Pep Guardiola four years later. With his departure imminent, City has already pinpointed Viana as their preferred choice for the role, as per Fabrizio Romano.

Hugo Viana shines off the pitch 

Hugo Viana, although not a standout player during his time at Newcastle, is now a leading candidate to take over as Manchester City's director of football, replacing Txiki Begiristain. Begiristain will be leaving his role at the end of the season after 12 years of exceptional service, during which he has made some remarkable signings. Viana will have big shoes to fill, but City sees potential in him for good reason.

After retiring, Viana briefly served as Belenenses' director of football before rejoining Sporting in 2018. During his time at Sporting, he played a key role in the club winning two Primeira Liga titles. Viana has established a solid working partnership with highly sought-after manager Ruben Amorim, and there is speculation that he may bring the 39-year-old with him to the Etihad when Guardiola eventually departs.

In the upcoming Champions League group stage next month, Sporting will confront Pep Guardiola's Manchester City. It is expected that Viana's appointment will be confirmed before this important match. Viana, at 41 years old, made a strategic investment of over £10 million to bring Amorim from Braga in 2020. This move is widely acknowledged as the catalyst for Sporting's recent period of success.