Guardiola Playfully Criticizes City’s Spending
Pep Guardiola admitted he feels “a little bit sad and upset” that Manchester City ranks only seventh in net transfer spending in the Premier League over the last five years. The Spanish manager joked about his frustration, adding he wishes the club would spend more.
City were the top spenders during January for the second consecutive year. The club signed Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi for around £84 million, following a £180 million spree the previous January.
Smart Sales Help Balance the Books
Despite their spending, City has earned significant revenue from player sales. According to Transfermarkt, the club has brought in £550 million over the last five years. Guardiola praised director of football Hugo Viana and his predecessor Txiki Begiristain for managing transfers well.
Guardiola commented, “In net spend over the last five years, we are seventh in the Premier League. I want to be first. I don’t understand why the club doesn’t spend more money. I am a little bit grumpy with them.”
He added that six other clubs now have higher net spending, meaning they may challenge for Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup titles more aggressively. “These are facts. Not opinions. Good luck to the six teams ahead of us,” Guardiola said with a smile.
City’s Trophy Record Remains Impressive
Although City did not win a major trophy last season, Guardiola’s side has claimed six of the past nine Premier League titles. The club has broken the £100 million transfer mark just once, signing Jack Grealish from Aston Villa in 2022.
City has also recouped money smartly. Since 2020, sales of academy products alone have generated over £250 million. Argentina forward Julian Alvarez joined Atletico Madrid in 2024 for a club-record £81.5 million, while Raheem Sterling’s move to Chelsea the previous year brought £50 million.
Premier League Net Spend Rankings (Last 5 Years)
- Manchester United – £675m
- Arsenal – £663m
- Chelsea – £651m
- Tottenham – £574m
- Newcastle – £424m
- Liverpool – £420m
- Manchester City – £396m
City remains efficient at balancing spending with sales, but Guardiola’s playful complaint highlights his desire to push the club to the top of net spend rankings.
