Manchester, UK, January 19, 2026 – Manchester City, the reigning titans of English football have just added another formidable piece to their already star-studded lineup.

The club today confirmed the signing of England international Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace on a five-and-a-half-year deal, tying him to the Etihad until the summer of 2031.

This transfer is a statement of intent, bringing one of the Premier League’s most admired young center-backs into Pep Guardiola’s defensive ranks.

At just 25 years old, Guéhi arrives armed with extensive top-flight experience, having spent the past four-and-a-half seasons at Selhurst Park. During his time with Palace, he amassed an impressive 188 appearances across all competitions, scoring 11 goals and providing eight assists – a solid return for a central defender.

Crucially, he has also cemented his place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad, earning 26 international caps and playing an integral role in their run to a second successive European Championship final at EURO 2024.

The irony of this transfer won’t be lost on City fans: Guéhi notably captained Crystal Palace to their first-ever piece of major silverware when the Eagles edged out City 1-0 in the 2025 FA Cup final last May. He lifted the famous trophy at Wembley, a moment that must have resonated with City’s hierarchy.

Now, the player who delivered that significant blow against them is joining their ranks, hoping to bring that winning mentality to the blue side of Manchester.

“I am really happy and incredibly proud to be a Manchester City player,” Guéhi expressed. He views the move as the “culmination of all the hard work” he has put into his career, acknowledging he is now at “the best club in England.” His desire to grow “as a player and a person” and “show the City fans what I can do” clearly signals his ambition.

City Director of Football Hugo Viana was equally delighted, hailing Guéhi as “one of the best defenders in English football for quite some time now.” Viana highlighted his “huge talent,” leadership qualities, exceptional defensive attributes, and intelligent reading of the game.

Born in Ivory Coast and having moved to London at a young age, Guéhi’s journey through Chelsea’s youth ranks (where he won the Under-17 World Cup with Phil Foden in 2017) and subsequent flourishing at Crystal Palace has forged a resilient and highly capable player.

Guéhi’s blend of “silk and steel,” combined with a “low maintenance, high performance” resume, makes him an ideal fit for Guardiola’s demanding system. With his prime years ahead, City fans can expect a passionate, energetic, and highly effective defender.

This acquisition, following the earlier signing of Antoine Semenyo, underscores City’s relentless pursuit of talent and their commitment to maintaining defensive solidity as they chase further glory.

Welcome to Manchester City, Marc.