Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, widely regarded for his sharp eye in the transfer market, has made a rare admission of regret, confessing that selling one particular player for just £50 million was a significant mistake. In a surprising revelation, Guardiola acknowledged that this former City star has now surpassed all of the club’s current top talents—including midfield maestro Rodri—in the latest Ballon d’Or rankings, leaving the manager to reflect on what might have been.
Guardiola, known for his meticulous approach to squad building and tactical precision, rarely looks back, but this transfer decision seems to weigh heavily on his mind. Speaking candidly in a recent interview, he reportedly stated, “We let him go for just £50 million, and now he’s ranked higher than ALL our players in the Ballon d’Or, including Rodri! Selling him was my biggest mistake!”
At the time of the transfer, Manchester City believed they were making a smart business move, confident that their squad depth and quality would not suffer without this player. The club accepted an offer, thinking they could easily compensate for his departure, but what unfolded next was something they never foresaw.
Another manager recognized the player’s immense potential and provided the perfect platform for him to thrive. Now, that once-overlooked talent has blossomed into a world-class star, proving beyond doubt that City let go of a generational gem far too soon.
His exceptional performances have not only elevated his new club to new heights but have also garnered global recognition, earning him a place above Rodri in the prestigious Ballon d’Or rankings. This stunning achievement has sparked fresh frustration among Manchester City supporters, with many now questioning the decision-making process that led to his departure. Fans have begun demanding answers, wondering why such a promising talent was allowed to leave so easily and at what now seems like a bargain price.
For Guardiola, this mistake stands out starkly against his otherwise impressive track record of building one of the most dominant teams in modern football history. While City continue to enjoy domestic success and challenge for European glory, watching a former player outshine their biggest stars on football’s grandest stage is undoubtedly a bitter pill to swallow.
As City look to the future, the big question remains: will Guardiola and the club’s hierarchy ever allow themselves to make such a costly error again? With this particular transfer now haunting both the manager and the fanbase, it serves as a stark reminder that even the best in the game aren’t immune to making regrettable decisions.
