Marc Guehi could hardly have asked for a smoother introduction to life at Manchester City after making a composed, victorious debut in the 2-0 Premier League win over Wolves.
Handed an immediate start, the England international justified the faith shown in him with a controlled display that underlined why City moved decisively to secure his services.
Thrown straight into the starting XI, Guehi slotted seamlessly into a back line that kept Wolves at arm’s length for long periods.
City’s defensive structure rarely wavered, and the new arrival looked assured in possession and alert to danger, reflecting the standards demanded under Pep Guardiola.
For a player making his first appearance in new colours, the calm authority he showed suggested a rapid adjustment to City’s exacting rhythm.
Speaking after the match, Guehi was keen to strike a note of gratitude and perspective rather than personal acclaim.
He said: “It’s good, it’s good, I don’t want to get too ahead of myself. But I’m thankful for the opportunity and thankful to be at the football club. It’s not bad, it’s good.
“It’s just the mentality of the team since I walked in, you can feel that intensity and that willingness to win.
“So it’s not even my block, it’s just an emotion that through me is what the whole team is feeling at the moment.
“it’s important to put those blocks in and get those goals however we can to get the win.
“It’s (Etihad Stadium) fantastic. The fans were great. The atmosphere was fantastic, the stadium is beautiful. So yeah it’s fantastic.”
Beyond the result, the afternoon offered an early glimpse of how Guehi may fit into City’s evolving defensive options.
