Former Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi has opened up on his decision to reject interest from Liverpool and Arsenal in order to complete a January move to Manchester City, revealing that the choice was clear the moment City came calling.

The England international had been close to joining Liverpool last summer, but the deal failed to materialise before the transfer window closed. With Guéhi entering the final six months of his Crystal Palace contract, the FA Cup holders were later forced into a difficult decision when it became apparent that their captain was unwilling to sign an extension.

Arsenal, who currently sit top of the Premier League, also showed strong interest in the former Chelsea centre-back. However, reports suggest the Gunners preferred to wait until the summer to sign Guéhi on a free transfer — a delay the defender was not willing to entertain.

Instead, Guéhi opted for an immediate move to the Etihad Stadium, insisting that his ambition to win trophies again made Manchester City the only real option.

“There’s been some talk and a lot of noise. But when they asked if I wanted to move to City, there was just one answer,” Guéhi said.
“I know how it feels to win, and I won’t stop until I feel that same way again. A lot has been said, but I’ll let my football speak for itself.”

Manchester City’s interest could not have come at a more crucial time. Pep Guardiola’s side are currently dealing with a defensive injury crisis, with John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, and Ruben Dias all sidelined. Nathan Aké has also struggled to play more than once a week due to fitness concerns, leaving Guardiola to rely on youngsters Abdukodir Khusanov (21) and Max Alleyne (20) in recent matches.

Guéhi’s arrival, for a reported fee of £20 million, provides much-needed experience and depth as City aim to revive their title challenge and push for silverware.

“It’s such an honour to play for such a big club,” Guéhi added.
“For me, I’ve always been really focused on getting better and wanting to improve.”

Opinion: A Statement Move That Demands Instant Impact

Marc Guéhi’s decision is more than a transfer — it’s a statement of intent. Turning down Liverpool and Arsenal, especially an Arsenal side flying high, shows a player driven not by convenience but by ambition.

That said, choosing Manchester City also comes with pressure. Guardiola’s system is demanding, and expectations are unforgiving. With City’s defensive line stretched thin, Guéhi won’t have the luxury of a slow adaptation period. He will be expected to perform immediately — to organise, lead, and deliver the calm authority that made him Crystal Palace captain.

For City, this move feels both necessary and timely. For Guéhi, it is an opportunity to reintroduce himself at the very top level, competing for trophies and honours once again.

If his words are to match his actions, this is the stage where Guéhi must truly let his football do the talking. And if he rises to the challenge, Manchester City may look back at this January deal as one of their smartest pieces of business of the season.