Marc Guehi Opens Up About Manchester City Transfer and Liverpool Near-Miss
Manchester City's new defensive acquisition Marc Guehi has provided fascinating insight into his protracted transfer saga, revealing how close he came to joining Premier League rivals Liverpool before finally securing his move to the Etihad Stadium. The 25-year-old centre-back, who joined City in a £20 million deal from Crystal Palace, spoke candidly about the winding path that led him to Pep Guardiola's side.
The Liverpool Deal That Almost Was
Guehi disclosed that his move to Anfield was remarkably close to completion last summer, with the medical examination virtually finished before the deal collapsed at the eleventh hour. "Very close," Guehi confirmed. "The medical was pretty much done and then it got pulled at the last minute." The defender had even recorded a farewell video message for Crystal Palace supporters before the South London club vetoed the £35 million transfer on deadline day.
Why Manchester City Won the Race
Despite interest from several European giants including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, Guehi explained that conversations with City personnel proved decisive. "We've been talking for quite a while and I obviously talked with different clubs," he revealed. "I felt from conversations, through talking with some of the players here, that this was the place for me to improve." His England teammates Phil Foden and John Stones, alongside manager Pep Guardiola and director of football Hugo Viana, all contributed to selling City's vision.
Professionalism Throughout the Saga
Throughout the extended transfer period, Guehi maintained exemplary professionalism at Selhurst Park, contrasting with other high-profile moves where players have forced transfers through disruptive means. "For me, it would be doing Palace a disservice if I was acting a certain way because the club's given me everything," he explained. "The least I can do is show up to work every single day, shut my mouth and keep my head down." This attitude saw him make 27 further appearances for Palace after the Liverpool deal collapsed.
Guardiola's Immediate Impact Assessment
Pep Guardiola has already expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition, highlighting Guehi's age and composure as key factors. "The transfer is a really good prize and he is the perfect age, 25," the City manager stated. "With the ball he had incredible composure. An incredible signing for Manchester City for many years. He's a guy you can rely on." This endorsement came after Guehi's impressive debut against Wolves, where he combined with teammates to secure a crucial late block.
From Palace Captain to City Contender
Guehi's journey represents a remarkable progression from his arrival at Crystal Palace in 2021, when he had never played Premier League football, to captaining the side to FA Cup glory and starting in the Euro 2024 final for England. "I just think of myself as someone who came to the club, who gave everything for the club and was a part of the amazing four-and-a-half years that we were there," he reflected. "So I was just a piece in the puzzle." His seamless integration into City's defence suggests he may become an equally important component in Guardiola's tactical system.
Looking Forward Without Burning Bridges
The defender leaves Palace with considerable goodwill intact, having maintained his status as a local hero despite the protracted transfer negotiations. When asked about his former club's historic FA Cup triumph against City last May, Guehi revealed that his new teammates have maintained diplomatic silence. "No one's said a word," he smiled, indicating the respectful atmosphere as he begins this new chapter of his career at the Premier League champions.
