During his decade at Manchester City, Pep Guardiola had many opponents on his radar. But not Olympique Lyonnais. In three confrontations in the Champions League, the Spanish coach has never won. Indeed, Les Gones won twice and conceded a draw. Guardiola had also impressed at the time by the Rhone team, in particular by Houssem Aouar. But it didn’t go any further for the Algerian. On the other hand, the Catalan technician gave the green light to recruit Rayan Cherki a few years later. A choice he did not regret since the French international had a stunning first year on the other side of the Channel.
The British press, renowned for being intractable, is still wondering how the Mancunians managed to buy it “only” for €36.5 million from Lyon. If Guardiola has left, the English management still appreciates made in OL and made in France. This Wednesday, theEvening Standard reveals that the residents of the Etihad Stadium are interested in Malo Gusto. Like Rayan Cherki, the right back did a large part of his training with Les Gones, with whom he also took his first steps in the professional world in 2021. Two years and 61 matches later, he was recruited for €35 million by Chelsea, convinced by his potential and his qualities. In England, the 23-year-old footballer continued his progression and gained experience, having also become a French A international.
Chelsea demand fortune for Gusto
He is currently participating in the 2026 World Cup with the France team. Jules Koundé’s understudy, he deserves better according to some observers, who see him as a potential starter. But that’s another debate. Gusto is coming off a season of 49 matches in all competitions at Chelsea, including 38 as a starter. This shows its importance. Regarding his statistics, he scored 3 goals and provided 5 assists. This didn’t escape anyone’s notice. Especially not at Juventus, who have been flirting with him for several months. This Wednesday, it’s Manchester City’s turn to join the dance. The Mancunians want to recruit a specialist in the position to compete with Matheus Nunes, author of a good year in this position.
Gusto’s profile is attractive. Frenchy is young and experienced, while having good room for improvement. He also has the advantage of knowing Enzo Maresca perfectly, who managed him at Chelsea and who will coach City. Everything is therefore in place for the Frenchman, whom the Blues will not absolutely seek to sell. But the door is wide open since the Londoners will recruit Marco Palestra for €55 million. An element that plays in the same position as Gusto, who would have a lot of competition. In the event of departure, the residents of Stamford Bridge value the former OL player at €87 million. A sum that seems enormous. On Transfermarktits market value is estimated at €35 million. What is certain is that the announced price cools Man City. THE Manchester Evening News also reveals that the player would have been offered to the Mancuniens, who would have little interest in him and who are also following the path leading to Givairo Read (Feyenoord), less expensive.
