Marc Guehi issues honest Etihad Stadium atmosphere verdict ahead of Manchester City debut | OneFootball

Manchester City fans can eagerly await the expected debut of Marc Guehi at the Etihad Stadium this weekend following his £20 million switch from Crystal Palace.

The England international’s arrival marks the conclusion of one of the most closely followed transfer stories of the January window, with City moving decisively to strengthen their defensive unit amid injury problems in the position.

The anticipation surrounding his debut – which is set to come this weekend – has only been heightened by Manchester City’s recent defensive struggles, with injuries to Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and John Stones leaving Pep Guardiola light on experienced options.

Therefore, Marc Guehi’s signing was viewed as both a strategic investment for the future, and an immediate solution, adding leadership and Premier League pedigree to a depleted back line.

Supporters have been encouraged by the player’s willingness to commit to the move at a stage when he could have waited until the summer and left Crystal Palace on a free transfer. Instead, Guehi chose to help his now-former club generate a fee while accelerating his own progression into a squad competing at the very highest level.

With Wolves set to visit the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon, Pep Guardiola has indicated that Guehi could be handed his first appearance, offering an ideal platform for the 25-year-old to begin integrating into the Catalan coach’s system and form early partnerships.

Speaking to Manchester City’s official club media channels after signing for the side from South London, Marc Guehi was quizzed for his thoughts on his new home.

“Such a beautiful stadium, to be honest. And then definitely, when this place is rocking it’s unbelievable. I’ve been on the end of a few losses here, and when it’s loud, it’s loud! So I’m really looking forward to being here.”

“I love a film, love a series, love to read. Any time I get to spend with my sisters, I spend it with them; it’s always good because none of us are serious, always laughing, joking. I love a coffee shop – so if there’s any good coffee recommendations [in Manchester], please let me know.”

Those comments underline both Marc Guehi’s respect for the Etihad as an opposition player and his excitement at now calling it home. Having previously experienced the intensity from the wrong side of the result, he will now hope to harness that energy to his advantage.

His remarks also offer fans an early glimpse into his personality away from football, portraying a grounded, family-oriented individual who values downtime and simple routines, and that balance between professionalism and personality may be seen as vital in thriving.

Looking ahead, Marc Guehi’s debut could well mark the beginning of a new defensive chapter at the Etihad Stadium, with City continuing to plan for long-term defensive evolution amid doubts over how long the likes of John Stones and Nathan Ake will remain at the club.