Marc Guehi has opened up on how close he came to joining Liverpool last summer and why he never considered reacting negatively when the move collapsed at the last moment.
The Crystal Palace captain appeared set for a deadline-day switch to Anfield, with the deal believed to be all but completed before Palace dramatically withdrew from negotiations late on. Guehi was left with no option but to remain in south London.
Rather than pushing for a transfer or showing frustration, the defender chose to stay professional. He felt it was his responsibility to continue giving everything on the training ground and on matchdays, describing that approach as the minimum Palace deserved after placing their trust in him.
That stance changed little when Manchester City reignited interest in January. With Pep Guardiola’s side determined to strengthen at centre-back, Palace were unable to stand in Guehi’s way and he completed a move to the Etihad on a long-term contract.
Reflecting on the failed Liverpool transfer, Guehi admitted the switch was close to happening before it fell apart. He said he quickly refocused, believing there was a bigger plan for him and choosing to concentrate fully on his role at Palace. Acting out or causing disruption, he explained, would have felt wrong given how much the club had meant to him.
Guehi added that he was relieved to finally secure a move when City came calling and feels confident he has landed in the right place to continue his development.
The England international wasted no time settling in, starting his City career with a clean sheet in a 2-0 victory over Wolves. The result marked City’s first league win of the calendar year and kept them within four points of leaders Arsenal.
His arrival has come at a crucial moment for Guardiola, who is currently without several senior defenders through injury. With Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol and John Stones all sidelined, Guehi has been thrown straight into the spotlight.
Ironically, Stones played a role in convincing Guehi to make the move, despite facing an uncertain future himself with his contract nearing its end. Guehi revealed he spoke to a number of City players before deciding, including Stones and Phil Foden, and said the positivity around the club was a major factor.
He added that feeling valued and welcomed was important to him, and so far he has felt exactly that since arriving in Manchester.