Marc Guehi’s collapsed move to Liverpool was one of the defining stories of deadline day.
The Crystal Palace captain had completed his medical and seemed destined for Anfield, only for the deal to break down when Palace failed to secure a replacement.
Yet, instead of stirring controversy, Guehi handled the disappointment with remarkable poise – something Gary Neville has lauded as a lesson in professionalism. Speaking on The Overlap, Neville said:
“I thought it was brilliant. I thought the class, the way in which he handled the question around the situation with Liverpool, he had a smile on his face. He was so relaxed. He said it had been an interesting two weeks. He didn’t antagonise, he didn’t come out with anything smart. You can just tell he’s a really good guy.”
Neville contrasted Guehi’s conduct with that of other players who forced exits:
“Taking it back 10 days, there was a narrative that you’re better off being Alexander Isak because you get your move than being Marc Guehi, who doesn’t. No. In the long run, 70 years of your life, it will pay you back being Marc Guehi.”
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Guehi’s class leaves Liverpool waiting
The England international echoed that maturity in his post-match comments after the 5–0 win over Serbia. Asked about the ordeal, Guehi smiled: “It’s been great!”
Later, when pressed on whether the Liverpool saga made international duty difficult, he replied:
“It’s always easy coming here, such a good group of players, good group of staff. We are all working towards one goal. Really enjoyable. Always good to be here.”
Still, questions linger over Liverpool’s decision to walk away. Neville admitted,
“I wonder if Liverpool will regret [not signing Guehi]. If, say, Konate gets injured, [will they regret] not [offering Palace] like £45m-£50m and just getting him over the line?”
Jamie Carragher echoed those fears: “That’s the one area where Liverpool [have problems]… What Guehi was giving Liverpool was competition at centre-back. They haven’t got that.”
Anfield Home says
From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this is bittersweet. Guehi’s character makes him the kind of player supporters admire – calm, loyal, and grounded.
Yet, his professionalism may have cost the club vital defensive reinforcement. While some will rue what might have been, others will cling to hope that Liverpool bide their time and eventually sign not just a centre-back, but a leader whose conduct shows he is built for Anfield.
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