EXCLUSIVE: Brendan Rodgers would REJECT any approach from Newcastle’s Saudi-led owners to become their new manager as Leicester boss holds out for the Man City job in 18 months’ time
- Rodgers has been part of the conversation among Newcastle’s new owners
- Yet sources confirm the Leicester boss is also potentially on a different shortlist
- Rodgers would be in the frame to succeed Pep Guardiola at Man City in 2023
- City wanted him on their coaching staff when Roberto Mancini was appointed
Brendan Rodgers will resist interest from Newcastle United — as he is in the frame to replace Pep Guardiola as manager of Manchester City in 18 months’ time.
Sources have confirmed that the Leicester boss would feature on a shortlist to succeed Guardiola at the end of next season. He has admirers at the Etihad and was discussed as a replacement for Roberto Mancini in 2013.
Rodgers’ name has been part of the conversation among Newcastle’s new owners in the past week, as have several others.
Brendan Rodgers (L) will resist interest from Newcastle as he is also in the frame at Man City
Leicester boss would feature on a shortlist to succeed Pep Guardiola at the end of next season
However, there is a feeling that making a move for a rival top-flight boss would be politically disruptive at this stage of their ownership, even though some have said he is the best man for the role.
The Northern Irishman won the FA Cup last season but is said to have one or two grumbles over decisions at Leicester, specifically regarding recruitment. Sportsmail also understands his wife is keen to return to the North West.
City are already thinking about the man to come in after Guardiola, who plans to leave when his contract expires in the summer of 2023.
They are conscious that the players will need either a big-name manager or an outstanding coach to soften the blow of losing the Spaniard. Rodgers, they believe, covers the latter category.
City are already thinking about the man to come in after Guardiola, who plans to leave in 2023
City wanted him on their coaching staff when Mancini was appointed in 2009. But the Italian insisted on David Platt, while Brian Kidd was added by the club.
Rodgers will be conscious of protecting his reputation amid the City interest. While it is widely accepted he has done an excellent job at Leicester, they are currently 13th in the Premier League and juggling the demands of domestic and European campaigns.
Newcastle are set to part company with head coach Steve Bruce ahead of Sunday’s home game against Tottenham, with assistant boss Graeme Jones being placed in caretaker charge.
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