Manchester City have moved swiftly to solve their defensive crisis, reaching a £20 million agreement with Crystal Palace for captain Marc Guéhi.
The England international is scheduled to undergo his medical this Sunday following a breakthrough in negotiations. With Guéhi’s contract at Selhurst Park set to expire in June 2026, Palace opted to accept a cut-price fee now rather than losing their star defender for free in the summer.
Why Guardiola Acted Now
While a new center-back wasn’t initially a priority for Pep Guardiola, a string of devastating injuries has forced City’s hand. The Premier League champions are currently grappling with a defensive “red alert”:
- Joško Gvardiol: Sidelined with a leg fracture and unlikely to return this season.
- Rúben Dias: Out with a persistent thigh injury.
- John Stones: Continuing to struggle with physical instability since 2025.
Faced with the prospect of a trophyless season, Guardiola requested an immediate, “Premier League-ready” replacement. Guéhi, who was previously linked with Real Madrid and Liverpool, emerged as the perfect candidate to stabilize a backline that recently conceded twice in the Manchester Derby.
Oliver Glasner Confirms Departure
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner all but confirmed the move following his side’s defeat to Sunderland. “He won’t be involved. When a player wants to leave and an agreement is reached, there is little more to say,” Glasner admitted, signaling the end of Guéhi’s era in South London.
Turning the Tide
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Manchester City is currently enduring a rare slump, with only two wins in their last six outings. Currently sitting second in the table seven points behind leaders Arsenal Guardiola hopes Guéhi’s arrival will provide the spark needed for the final stretch.
City’s focus now shifts to the UEFA Champions League, where they face Bodø/Glimt this Tuesday. It remains to be seen if Guéhi will be registered in time to bolster the squad for the European stage.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
