Softfootball understands that Manchester City have wrapped up the signing of England defender Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, and Pep Guardiola seems genuinely happy about it. The 25-year-old, who already has some caps for England, now heads to the Etihad just when City need him most.
As reported by the club via their official X account, Guardiola made sure to give a personal shoutout to the club for making the move happen.
He said:
Pep (On Marc Guéhi) Top central defender. Played for the national team. I will say my personal thanks to the Club. He is the perfect age to play for many years. He can play right or left. And him especially because he wanted to choose us. The problem we have at the back in the next few months so it’s really important that he is here.
Timing couldn’t be more crucial. City have been struggling with injuries at the back. Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and John Stones are all out, so Guehi arrives right in the nick of time. Basically, he’s here to help immediately and long-term too.
Guardiola sees Guehi as more than a stopgap. At 25, he’s in his prime, and he can play central or wide, left or right. That versatility is a big plus. It gives City options, especially in games where they need to switch things up quickly.
Following the signing of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, Guehi has signed a five-and-a-half-year deal, staying at City until 2031. At Palace, he was captain, played nearly 200 games, and gained plenty of experience. That leadership is exactly what a young Manchester City defence needs.
This deal is not just a quick fix. It is a statement that Manchester City remains a destination for top talent, and Guehi could easily become a key piece of Guardiola’s backline for years. Right now, fans are just hoping he settles quickly.
