From Palace to Payroll: Guehi Breaks into City’s High Earners
19 January 2026
Guehi lands blockbuster deal at City
\nDefender Marc Guehi becomes Manchester City's second-highest-paid player after moving from Crystal Palace on Monday for £20 million. The 25-year-old centre-back signed a five-and-a-half-year contract, with weekly wages of £300,000, as City acted before his Palace contract expired at the end of the season.
\nCity moved quickly to secure him, valuing his age, international experience, and potential impact at the heart of Pep Guardiola's defense for years to come.
\nSalary ladder at Manchester City
\nWithin the squad, only Erling Haaland earns more, at a weekly £525,000. Guehi's £300,000 places him alongside Bernardo Silva, while Omar Marmoush earns £295,000 per week. Senior stars such as John Stones, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Ruben Dias each command around £250,000 weekly, Tijani Reijnders £230,000, Phil Foden £225,000, and Rodri £220,000.
\nIn January, Guehi's arrival follows City's bid to beat Liverpool to his signature after Palace contract talks stalled. The deal strengthens City’s defensive depth and underscores the club's continued ambition in the market.
\nBackup keepers Stefan Ortega and James Trafford earn £90,000 and £50,000 per week respectively, underscoring City's broad payroll strategy and their willingness to invest even in squad depth.
\nWith Guehi aboard, City’s payroll features a mix of established stars and young talents, a balance that keeps the squad competitive while feeding the rumor mill. And yes, even the accountants are likely reaching for a calculator that doubles as a trophy.
\nPunchlines: if money talked, City just hired him to give a TED Talk. And the payroll is so inflated that even my jokes are offside.