Inside Pep Guardiola’s €489m Man City rebuild

Another busy transfer window at the Etihad

A transfer window is never quiet at Manchester City, and January has followed the same pattern.

Sources have told ESPN that City are close to agreeing a deal for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi, a move worth around £20 million. The England international would strengthen a defence hit hard by injuries in recent weeks.

If completed, Guéhi would become City’s 14th signing since January 2025. Those additions span every position on the pitch, forming what can now be described as Pep Guardiola’s new-signing XI — assembled at a cost of around €489 million.

Goalkeeper: Donnarumma takes control

Gianluigi Donnarumma joined City from PSG for €30 million on deadline day in September. Since then, he has become the clear No.1.

He has conceded just 10 goals in 23 matches across all competitions and ranks among the league’s best for goals prevented. James Trafford arrived earlier in the summer for €31 million but was quickly moved to second choice once Donnarumma joined.

Defence: New faces and quick lessons

At right back, Abdukodir Khusanov arrived from Lens for €40 million. His debut against Chelsea was a nightmare, featuring a costly error and a booking inside four minutes. Despite that, he has made 23 appearances this season, often filling in across the back line.

Marc Guéhi is expected to slot straight into central defence if his move is completed. With John Stones, Josko Gvardiol and Rúben Dias all injured, City need immediate help.

Vitor Reis, signed for €37 million, has gained experience on loan at Girona after limited first-team action at City.

On the left, Rayan Aït-Nouri joined from Wolves for €36 million. Injuries have slowed his progress, with just nine appearances so far this season.

Midfield: Replacing Rodri was never easy

Nico González has been one of City’s most successful recent signings. Bought for €60 million from Porto, he has already played 45 matches since arriving last January.

With Rodri sidelined for long spells last year, González has taken on major responsibility. By his own admission, filling Rodri’s role is far from simple.

Tijjani Reijnders, signed for €55 million from AC Milan, made an immediate impact with a goal and an assist on his league debut. He has since become a key part of Guardiola’s midfield.

Rayan Cherki, bought for €36 million, is arguably the most naturally gifted player in the squad. His creativity has impressed, though Guardiola has often preferred to use him from the bench.

Attack: Goals, assists and big price tags

Savinho arrived for €25 million after shining with Girona. He has delivered consistently, with five goals and 16 assists across all competitions.

Antoine Semenyo, signed for €72 million, has made a fast start. He scored in both of his first two appearances, including a decisive goal against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semifinals.

Leading the line is Omar Marmoush, City’s most expensive signing of the period at €75 million. While he claimed the Premier League’s Goal of the Season last year, injuries and international duty have limited his impact this season.

A squad built for now and the future

Guéhi’s expected arrival underlines City’s approach. They are not just reacting to injuries, but continuing a long-term rebuild under Guardiola.

Nearly €500 million later, City have assembled a squad packed with depth, versatility and competition — exactly how Guardiola likes it.