"Clubs spend money because they are allowed to within the Financial Fair Play rules. And clearly, it's not just Man City, right?", Guardiola said on 22/8 in a press conference before the Premier League match against Tottenham.
According to the Spanish manager, Man City's strategy isn't reckless spending, but is based on calculation and balance. "Our net spending over the past 10-11 years has been truly impressive. People often say Man City buys a lot, but to spend, you have to sell. If you don't sell, you can't spend. Man City does this very well, and that's why we're sustainable," he stated.
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Manager Pep Guardiola in the press conference before the Premier League match against Tottenham. Photo: Man City |
Manager Pep Guardiola in the press conference before the Premier League match against Tottenham. Photo: Man City
According to Transfermarkt, the total spending of 20 Premier League clubs in the summer of 2025 has reached 2.87 billion USD, the highest figure in the history of a transfer window and expected to increase in the final week. Liverpool leads with 394 million USD, excluding additional fees, bringing in Giorgi Mamardashvili, Giovanni Leoni, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike. They are also targeting Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace) and Alexander Isak (Newcastle). Following are Chelsea (325 million USD), Man Utd (267 million USD), Arsenal (260 million USD), and Man City (205 million USD).
In terms of net spending, Man Utd leads with 230 million USD. Following are Arsenal (216 million USD), Liverpool (120 million USD), and Man City (118 million USD).
This summer, Man City recruited Rayan Ait-Nouri, Marcus Bettinelli, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and James Trafford, and are targeting Rodrygo (Real Madrid) and Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG). Guardiola reiterated that last season Man City barely made any purchases due to a stable squad and having just won the championship. However, this season they have been forced to spend more due to injuries and a demanding schedule.
Guardiola also emphasized that massive spending doesn't guarantee success. "Football ultimately comes down to results on the pitch," the 54-year-old manager expressed. "We spend a lot. Yes. But the important thing is to win. As for other clubs, if they also spend heavily, that's their choice. Time on the field will provide the answer."
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Guardiola manages Man City in the 0-4 loss to Tottenham on 24/11/2024. Photo: AP |
Guardiola manages Man City in the 0-4 loss to Tottenham on 24/11/2024. Photo: AP
Guardiola is facing a daunting prospect as he welcomes Tottenham to the Etihad today. Nearly 9 months ago, at the same venue, he and his players suffered a 0-4 defeat against the same opponent in heavy rain, leading to harsh criticism. That loss also marked the beginning of a slump with only one win in 13 matches, causing Man City's early exit from the League Cup and Champions League, and dashing their hopes of defending the Premier League title.
However, Guardiola insists he's not thinking about revenge in this rematch. "What's past is past. Tottenham is always a tough opponent. This is just a new opportunity," he said, emphasizing the club's fresh atmosphere.
Compiled by Hong Duy
