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Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has revealed why his side did not choose to sign new Chelsea arrival Marc Cucurella this summer.
The Spanish left-back signed for the Blues from Brighton last week, despite being heavily linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium throughout much of the summer transfer window.
He made his debut for Chelsea in their 1-0 win away at Everton on the opening day of the Premier League season, coming off the bench in the second half.
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City were thought to be close to signing him but soon opted not to, having been unable to match the asking price set by Brighton.
Thomas Tuchel’s side then entered the race for the 24-year-old and were eventually able to secure his signature, with City soon signing Sergio Gomez from Anderlecht instead.
Guardiola has now revealed why they didn’t sign Cucurella, who will be keen to make a good impression in his first season at Chelsea.
Speaking to the media ahead of their match against Bournemouth this weekend via Manchester Evening News, he said: "The moment we couldn't go through with Cucurella because the club decide we wouldn't pay this amount of money for this player, I said 'okay', think about the idea we had before to loan Sergio."
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Cucurella was substituted on for fellow new signing Kalidou Koulibaly with 15 minutes remaining in the win at Goodison Park.
However, he impressed in his limited time on the pitch and nearly provided an assist for his new side, but Raheem Sterling’s effort on goal was blocked.
The defender could be set for his first start for Chelsea this weekend as the west London side face rivals Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge.
Tuchel’s side won all four of their games against Sunday’s opponents last season, but the German boss believes they are currently chasing Spurs.
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Speaking ahead of the match, he commented on their successful pre-season schedule: “They took advantage of the situation, which is fair enough.
“Now we try to find solutions to win this game and to be as fast as possible on our highest level.
“It can also help to have a big match like this early, it lifts you up and gives you a push, which is sometimes needed.
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“They took advantage of their situation in that they have a stable club, the ownership was clear, and it was clear that they reached the Champions League and took advantage to reinforce their squad very early.
“It was very straightforward. They had a calm pre-season. The roads were clear.
“It seems like they’re a bit ahead of us from the start, out of the blocks, but it does not mean that you win the race just because you win the start.”
Chelsea are also looking to progress off the pitch throughout the rest of the window, with the Blues reportedly agreeing personal terms with Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana amid his potential move to Stamford Bridge.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Pep Guardiola, Manchester City, Chelsea, Marc Cucurella, Premier League