- Marc Guehi visited Crystal Palace
- Oliver Glasner reveals ‘chat’ with ex-Eagles captain
- Manchester City star is shining at the Etihad
Oliver Glasner has revealed that former Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi visited the club ahead of the Europa Conference League clash with Fiorentina. The English centre-back left the Eagles back in January.
Guehi joined Manchester City in a £20m deal and has quickly become one of Pep Guardiola’s most important players. Palace fans watched him lead the team for years, and his greatest moment came when he lifted the FA Cup last season.
That came against City in the final at Wembley and he cemented his legacy as one of the best players in the club’s history. He made 188 appearances at Selhurst Park, posting 11 goals and eight assists.
Guehi Visits Palace
Glasner held a strong bond with Guehi during their time together at Palace. The England international was his captain and the Austrian was sad to see him leave earlier this year.
The Eagles boss spoke about the defender and his recent visit ahead of the Fiorentina game (via Bobby Manzi):
“Marc Guehi had a day off at Manchester City on Monday so he visited the training ground. It’s a good sign players who left Palace are always enjoying coming back and visiting. We had a chat, he (Guehi) had lunch with us.”
Guehi didn’t just leave teammates when he moved to City, but also close friends. He became a fan favourite throughout his spell with Palace.
The 25-year-old left behind Maxence Lacroix and Chris Richards, his two partners in Glasner’s back three. It would be interesting to hear what he makes of Jaydee Canvot who arrived last summer and has enjoyed a stellar debut season at the club.
What Guehi Said After Leaving
When Guehi made the move to City he spoke of his gratitude towards Palace and the belief the club showed in him. He said in an emotional farewell message:
“When I got transferred to the club and played my first game against Chelsea [in August 2021], we lost 3-0. It wasn’t a great day, but there was only one fanbase singing that day, knowing full well what the score was, knowing full well what the result was.“
He added:
“Palace were there, supporting each and every one of us from the first minute to the last minute.“
Guehi arrived from Chelsea in an £18m deal back in July 2021. He suggested the Eagles put their faith in him unlike the west Londoners:
“That is a testament to the football club, is a testament to the fans and what they’re about. Literally, through thick and thin, they’re there for you – and I think that is an incredible memory that will stick by me for the rest of my life.”
Glasner might well wish he had Guehi available for tonight’s clash with Fiorentina but the City man will clearly still be cheering the team on. They can take on massive step towards a European semi-final with a victory at Selhurst Park.
