When Manchester City defender Marc Guehi came to England at the age of 1, never in his wildest dreams did he think he would live through what he is currently experiencing in his blossoming football career.
Under Thomas Tuchel, the Manchester City defender made it to the final squad that would play in the prestigious FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament being held across the USA, Canada and Mexico from 14 June to 19 July.
And on 17 June, he played in a World Cup tournament for the very first time at 25 when he replaced John Stones in the 87th minute.
In the subsequent game against Ghana, Guehi would go on to make his full World Cup debut as he kept his first clean sheet on the biggest stage.
Marc Guehi reflects on World Cup journey
For a man born to Ivorian parents, the former Crystal Palace captain was the first to admit that he never thought he would experience that, terming the moment he stepped onto the pitch for his World Cup debut as more than a dream.
“I wouldn’t say it is a dream come true because to be honest, I never expected to ever be in this position. Every single day is a dream, more than a dream,” he told SportPesa ahead of England’s final Group L game against Panama.
Reflecting on his first start, Guehi revealed that he felt the opportunity to play at the World Cup with England was not a mere chance but a responsibility.
“To be in this position is a lot of responsibility. I feel like I have a lot of responsibility not just to myself and my family but for those around the world that potentially do have this dream and want to achieve something that I have been able to achieve which is playing in the World Cup,” he noted.
While aware of the journey he has had to make, Guehi, who spent years in the Chelsea academy but never broke into the senior team and had stints at Swansea City, Crystal Palace before his big move to Manchester City, sent an inspiring message to kids around the world who are looking to find hope from his journey.
“For those looking at me right now I think it’s important that they know that it’s more than possible, that if I’m here, that they have even more of a chance to be here and do far more than I ever will,” he said.
Having starred for England in the Euro 2024 tournament where they finished second, Guehi will be hoping to help the Three Lions achieve the highest prize in football.
The European powerhouses will be looking to end a 60-year wait for the coveted crown, with England having last lifted the trophy on home soil back in 1966 by defeating West Germany 4-2 at Wembley.
