Marc Guehi Explains Reasons for Man City Move After Liverpool Transfer Nightmare

Marc Guehi, the England international and former Crystal Palace captain, has opened up about his £20m transfer to Manchester City, revealing the frustrations from a collapsed deal with Liverpool last summer that turned into a "nightmare."

In a candid interview, Guehi detailed how negotiations with Liverpool reached an advanced stage during the blockbuster summer window under Arne Slot. Reports claimed he had completed a medical on deadline day, but the deal dramatically fell through in the final hours due to unresolved terms and escalating demands. "It was heartbreaking," Guehi admitted. "Everything was lined up—medical done, handshakes exchanged—but it unraveled at the last second. I felt stuck, like a free agent in limbo, waiting for clarity that never came."[1][2]

Guehi explained his decision to join Man City stemmed from their persistence and a more straightforward approach. Crystal Palace accepted City's initial £20m bid—far below his previous £80m valuation—plus a sell-on clause, especially after manager Oliver Glasner's departure announcement. "City saw my potential long-term and acted decisively amid their injury crisis," Guehi said. With John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, and Ruben Dias sidelined, he provides immediate relief to Pep Guardiola's depleted backline.[3][5]

The move completes City's 14th signing since last January, pushing spending near €500m. Guehi highlighted City's "eye-watering" wages as a factor, suggesting Liverpool pulled out over salary disputes. "Liverpool hesitated on the personal terms; City didn't. It felt critical for my career to take this step now."[4]

Liverpool, now pivoting to alternatives like Alessandro Bastoni (£80m from Inter), Dortmund's experienced options, or Atalanta's Giorgio Senesi (contract expiring), must regroup. Guehi expressed no bitterness: "Liverpool's a great club, but City's the right move for trophies and stability."[1]

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