The player, a key figure in his current club's system, has communicated his desire to leave Germany. His performance has made him one of the most sought-after in Europe.
At FC Barcelona, they dreamed of his arrival as a generational replacement for the midfield. However, Financial Fair Play limitations have prevented them from making an offer that could compete on equal terms. The economy once again frustrates an exciting signing that Joan Laporta and Deco viewed favorably.
Deco | @deco_official
A clear bet on Guardiola's style
The Catalan coach has left no room for doubt: signing him was a priority to strengthen his squad. He believes the German midfielder surpasses Pedri and Dani Olmo in tactical intelligence and offensive vision. He thinks he can become his new playmaker, just as Kevin De Bruyne once was.
Hansi Flick also agrees with this assessment, seeing him as an essential figure for Germany in the European Championship. Both coaches value his ability to create play in tight spaces and make decisions in the final third. He is a player with personality, tactical maturity, and global star potential in the coming years.
Pedri with Barça | @FCBarcelona
The verbal agreement with the player's camp is closed, pending final confirmation from the selling club. The only obstacle is that Bayern Munich can't match or exceed the English offer. Although the Bavarians are still trying to convince him, the footballer is clearly leaning toward the Premier League.
Guardiola's project, along with the chance to make the leap to England, is irresistible for the midfielder. At the Etihad, they're offering him immediate prominence, a central role, and a considerable salary increase. The deal is moving forward rapidly and is expected to be made official within days.
Pep Guardiola | @ManCityES
A star contract and leading role at City
The contract includes a long duration, salary increase, and hierarchy in the locker room from the first training session. In Manchester, they see him as the natural heir to the most important player of their last decade. His signing represents a future investment and a major statement in the European market.
Meanwhile, Barça has been completely ruled out for not being able to make a concrete offer. Despite the initial interest, the deal was economically unfeasible for the Catalan club. Another missed opportunity due to financial restrictions that prevent them from competing against English giants.
Pep Guardiola | Premier League
The disappointment in the Camp Nou offices is clear, as the player fit perfectly into the project. Young, creative, with international projection and personality on the field: he had all the qualities Hansi Flick was looking for. His arrival would have been a statement of intent, but now it's impossible.
The player's camp highlights his preference for a competitive club in Europe with title aspirations. Barça can't offer that today, and the decision has been consistent with the current situation. The Catalan club will now shift toward other profiles that are more accessible and manageable economically.
Florian Wirtz | Bayer Leverkusen
Manchester City has finally come out on top with a deal close to €90 million. Guardiola's chosen one is none other than Florian Wirtz, the jewel of German soccer who was once headed for Camp Nou. While England celebrates, in Barcelona all that's left is to lament a missed opportunity.
