Pep Guardiola has cheekily highlighted Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea’s heavy transfer spending this summer, contrasting it with Manchester City’s more modest outlay. While City have spent around €177m (£153m) in the window, their rivals have all surpassed the €225m (£195m) mark — with Liverpool leading at nearly €340m (£295m).
Speaking to reporters, Guardiola said: “I don’t know, but the clubs spend with the strict financial rules [of PSR] and they will only spend if they can do it. Apparently it’s not just Manchester City [who are spending]. Everyone does what they believe is the best for the team. I know our net spend for the last 10-11 years is amazing. You don’t spend if you don’t sell. We have been really good, that’s why they’re sustainable.”
City have long been criticized for their transfer activity during a decade of dominance, but Guardiola pointed out that rival clubs are now outspending his side. With Premier League clubs collectively splashing a record £2.37bn ($3.2bn) this summer, the City boss suggested the fierce spending spree could set the stage for one of the most competitive title races in years.
