Manchester City Welcomes Marc Guéhi: A Promising Addition to the Squad

Manchester City is pleased to announce the signing of Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace. The 25-year-old defender has secured a five-and-a-half-year deal, ensuring his presence at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2031. An established England international with 26 caps, Guéhi began his career at Chelsea. He garnered attention during his loan spell at Swansea City in the 2020-21 season, where he played a pivotal role in leading the team to the Championship play-off final before moving to Crystal Palace.

Following a standout performance at EURO 2024, where he was instrumental in England’s journey to the final, Guéhi was appointed club captain for Oliver Glasner’s side ahead of the 2024-25 season. In his inaugural season as captain, he led Crystal Palace to a historic FA Cup victory against Manchester City last May, securing the club’s first major trophy and qualification for European football. This success was complemented by winning the FA Community Shield in August, defeating Liverpool at Wembley Stadium. Throughout his tenure at Crystal Palace, Guéhi has participated in 188 matches, scoring 11 goals.

Guéhi becomes Manchester City’s second signing of the January transfer window, following Antoine Semenyo’s transfer from Bournemouth, bringing the club’s total expenditure to £85 million.

Upon joining the club, Guéhi expressed his excitement, stating, “I am really happy and incredibly proud to be a Manchester City player. This move feels like the culmination of all the hard work I have put into my career. I am now at the best club in England and part of an incredible squad. I want to grow as a player and a person, and I know that will happen here. Football has given me so much, and continuing my development at Manchester City is a special moment for me and my family. I can’t wait to get started.”

City’s Director of Football, Hugo Viana, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “It is clear that Marc has been one of the best defenders in English football for quite some time, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Manchester City. He is a tremendous talent who will help us improve our team. At just 25, he has already demonstrated leadership and professionalism, while showing a strong desire to enhance his skills. He possesses exceptional defensive abilities, a keen understanding of the game, and consistently brings passion and energy to the pitch. We are delighted that he chose to join us.”

Guéhi was previously very close to transferring to Liverpool in the summer, only for Crystal Palace to block the move on deadline day. He now joins a Manchester City squad that remains in contention for the Premier League title, trailing Arsenal by seven points. City is also close to reaching the Carabao Cup final after a 2-0 win against Newcastle in the semi-final first leg and has progressed to the fourth round of the FA Cup. Although Guéhi will be unavailable for the Champions League matches against Bodo/Glimt and Galatasaray, he will be eligible to participate in the knockout stages if City advances.

Guéhi is anticipated to make his debut for Manchester City in their upcoming Premier League match against Wolves on Saturday. “This squad boasts incredible experience,” he remarked. “Many players have excelled at the highest levels and won numerous accolades. The addition of Antoine [Semenyo], who has proven himself in the Premier League, is fantastic. I aim to contribute positively, integrate with the team, and continue improving.”