Marc Guéhi has spoken publicly for the first time since completing his move to Manchester City, describing the switch as an opportunity he could not turn down and promising to give everything for his new club.
The England international has joined Pep Guardiola’s side after City reached an agreement with Crystal Palace for the defender, ending weeks of speculation about where he would play next. The deal strengthens City’s options at centre-back ahead of the new season and adds a player who already knows the Premier League well.
In his first message following the announcement, Guéhi said he was proud to sign for the champions and excited to work under Guardiola. He also thanked Palace for his time at Selhurst Park, highlighting the support he received from teammates, staff and supporters during his development in south London.
City have been monitoring Guéhi for some time and accelerated their push as the transfer window moved on. With injuries and the demands of competing on multiple fronts again this year, the club wanted another top-level defender who is comfortable playing in a high line and building from the back.
Guéhi arrives with a strong reputation for his calmness in possession, reading of the game and leadership. He captained Palace on several occasions and has been a regular for England, qualities that appealed to City as they continue to refresh and deepen the squad.
The defender is expected to challenge immediately for minutes, with Guardiola having rotated heavily in recent seasons to keep players fresh across the Premier League, domestic cups and Europe. Guéhi’s ability to play on either side of central defence also gives City added flexibility tactically.
For Palace, the departure marks the end of a key chapter. Guéhi became one of the club’s standout performers after arriving from Chelsea and grew into one of the most reliable defenders in the league. Palace are now likely to step into the market to replace him as they plan for the months ahead.
Guéhi, meanwhile, turns his focus to settling quickly in Manchester, meeting his new teammates and preparing for the challenges that come with joining a club where expectations are constant. His message was simple: he is ready to get started.
