Guardiola praises Marc Guehi after assured Manchester City debut against Wolves
Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on new signing Marc Guehi following the defender’s impressive debut for Manchester City in their 2-0 Premier League victory over Wolves at the Etihad Stadium.
The England international made his first appearance for the club just days after completing a £20 million move from Crystal Palace, slotting straight into central defence amid an ongoing injury crisis at the back.
Guardiola highlights leadership and composure
Speaking after the match, Guardiola was keen to underline Guehi’s experience, leadership qualities, and immediate impact despite having only a handful of training sessions with his new teammates.
“It is not necessary to tell about Marc and who he is,” Guardiola said. “The captain from Crystal Palace, national team for your country and he knows everything.”
The City boss went on to compare Guehi’s presence to that of Ruben Dias when the Portuguese defender first arrived at the club.
“You had a feeling from day one. I remember Ruben had incredible focus in every action and winning duels. With the ball he had incredible composure,” Guardiola explained.
Instant impact despite limited training
Guardiola admitted that Guehi has barely had time to work tactically with the squad, yet still displayed the intelligence and calmness required to operate in City’s demanding defensive system.
“We didn’t train anything yet but I have the feeling with the people in the middle we move a little bit better,” he added.
“He is a guy you can rely on. You see it – two training sessions, how he moves, how he talks, how he sees what happens around him, reading the situations. Really good.”
Long-term vision behind January signings
Guardiola also grouped Guehi with fellow January arrival Antoine Semenyo, stressing that both players have been signed with a long-term project in mind rather than as short-term fixes.
“They have not come for six months. They have come for many years,” Guardiola said. “So the transfer is a really good prize and they are the perfect age – 25, 26 – so an incredible signing for Manchester City for many years.”
Conclusion
Marc Guehi’s composed debut has immediately vindicated Manchester City’s decision to move quickly in the January transfer window. With Guardiola already drawing parallels to Ruben Dias’ early influence, Guehi looks set to play a central role in stabilising City’s defence as they push for silverware in the second half of the season.
FAQ
- Who did Marc Guehi make his Manchester City debut against?
Guehi made his debut in Manchester City’s 2-0 Premier League win over Wolves.
- What did Pep Guardiola praise most about Guehi?
Guardiola highlighted Guehi’s leadership, composure on the ball, communication, and ability to read the game.
- How much training had Guehi completed before his debut?
Guardiola revealed Guehi had taken part in just two training sessions before starting the match.
- How much did Manchester City pay for Marc Guehi?
Manchester City signed Guehi from Crystal Palace for £20 million.
- Why did Guardiola mention Antoine Semenyo?
Guardiola grouped Guehi and Semenyo together as long-term signings, emphasising their age profile and importance to City’s future.
