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Manchester City are interested in welcoming Pablo Zabaleta back to the club in a non-player role following the retirement of the former captain after the release of West Ham
- Pablo Zabaleta retires from soccer after an impressive 18-year career
- The release of the 35-year-old Argentine by West Ham motivated the decision
- The defender spent nine seasons at Manchester City and could now return
- If Zabaleta chooses to pursue a football career off the pitch, City is interested
Manchester City are open to Pablo Zabaleta returning to the club after his retirement last week.
Zabaleta, who spent nine seasons at Etihad Stadium, ended an 18-year career after leaving West Ham United.
Sportsmail understands that City would welcome the Argentine if he decides to pursue a career in the game beyond the game.
Pablo Zabaleta has retired from professional football after being released by West Ham
The 35-year-old had an 18-year career, but his next move in or out of the game is unclear.
If the former defender opts for a role he does not play, his former club Manchester City is interested.
People like Patrick Vieira and Joleon Lescott have previously been offered the opportunity to try out different areas of the business within the City Football Group before embarking on their next chapter.
Vieira completed a period of study on the administrative side at the club’s training base before assuming the position of manager of the Elite Development side.
The former France international moved to sister club New York City, where he spent two years as a manager before joining Nice in 2018.
The right-back enjoyed nine successful seasons in Manchester and is a respected professional.
Zabaleta could follow Patrick Vieira as a former star who returned to work within the City Group
Meanwhile, Lescott currently operates in the City’s lending department, a key role within the City’s fabric given the variety of young talents that are in temporary deals across the continent.
Lescott works with Fergal Harkin, Football Pathways and Associations Manager, and provides regular support to players who are on loan.
