Transfer deadline day always brings drama, tension, and heartbreak, and for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, the final hours of the summer window were as chaotic as they were disappointing. Tipped heavily to join Liverpool, the Premier League champions who had been chasing defensive reinforcements, Guehi appeared destined for a career-defining switch. Yet, in a dramatic late twist, Palace pulled the plug on the move at the eleventh hour.

For Guehi, the collapse of the deal could have lingered as a bitter setback. After all, Liverpool’s interest was real, advanced, and public. Reports had suggested that personal terms were all but agreed, with Guehi ready to slot into Jürgen Klopp’s squad. However, Palace — keen not to lose their captain and defensive lynchpin so late in the window — withdrew from talks and effectively ended Liverpool’s hopes.

But instead of dwelling on the disappointment, the 25-year-old turned the page quickly. Just days later, Guehi was called up by new England manager Thomas Tuchel for the latest round of World Cup qualifiers, a sign of the faith the German coach has in his abilities. The international break, as it turned out, would provide the perfect stage for Guehi to silence any lingering doubts about his mental strength and footballing pedigree.

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A Quick Turnaround: From Transfer Collapse to England Duty

When the transfer window slammed shut, many expected Guehi to need time to process what had happened. After all, opportunities to join a club like Liverpool do not come around often. For many players, such moments can define careers.

Yet, Guehi showed remarkable composure and maturity. Having already returned to full fitness following an injury concern earlier in the season, he arrived at St. George’s Park ready to focus solely on the national team. England, under Tuchel, were preparing for what many had billed as the toughest fixture of their qualifying campaign — an away match against Serbia in Belgrade.

The atmosphere was expected to be hostile, the opposition physical and aggressive. For Tuchel, the challenge was to sharpen England’s defensive resilience while finding rhythm in attack. Guehi, named in the starting XI alongside Ezri Konsa in central defence, embraced the moment.

What followed was not just a solid individual display but arguably Guehi’s most memorable performance to date in an England shirt.

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England’s Statement Performance

England have faced criticism in recent months for uninspiring performances, lacking fluidity and ruthlessness. Questions lingered about Tuchel’s system, his selections, and whether this team could rediscover the sparkle needed to dominate Europe’s elite.

Against Serbia, however, those doubts were firmly silenced. England delivered a commanding 5-0 win, their most emphatic display under Tuchel. From back to front, the team looked cohesive, sharp, and determined.

For Guehi, the night became even more special. Early in the second half, with England already in control, he rose highest in the box to meet a pinpoint delivery and scored his first-ever international goal. The strike, England’s fourth of the night, effectively sealed the contest and all but booked their ticket to next summer’s World Cup.

The look of joy on Guehi’s face told its own story. Having grown up dreaming of representing England, to score on such a stage was the perfect reward for years of hard work.

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Guehi’s Reaction: “The Best Feeling”

Speaking after the game, Guehi’s smile was unmissable. Asked by ITV about the whirlwind eight days — from missing out on Liverpool to scoring for England — the Palace defender was refreshingly upbeat.

> “It’s been great! It’s always easy coming here, such a good group of players, good group of staff. We are all working towards one goal,” he said.

“I’m just over the moon [to score my first goal]. It’s a fantastic feeling. You work really hard growing up, so to score a goal for your country is the best feeling.”

It was clear from his words that he had put the transfer saga firmly behind him. His focus is now on football — for both club and country.

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Tuchel’s Praise

England boss Thomas Tuchel, meanwhile, was quick to highlight Guehi’s contribution, not just in terms of the goal but also his professionalism throughout the camp.

> “It’s the example of how the boys were at this camp,” Tuchel remarked. “They put their personal interests to one side and he was the best team-mate possible and had a fantastic performance. He was very strong for Crystal Palace and demonstrated that today on the pitch.”

Tuchel’s comments were telling. England, for all their attacking talent, need leaders at the back. Guehi, with his calm presence, aerial ability, and growing leadership qualities, fits the bill perfectly.

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Kane and the England Spirit

Captain Harry Kane echoed the sense of pride within the camp after the match, pointing to the collective effort.

> “We scored five and made it look comfortable. We can be proud of ourselves. It has been a great camp and we are in a great position,” Kane told BBC Radio 5 Live.

“They found it difficult to play. Whenever they did break, we recovered quickly. Serbia are a good team, and we made them look average tonight.”

Kane’s words summed up the mood: England looked confident, united, and ready to send a message ahead of the World Cup.

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The Transfer That Never Was

Still, the shadow of Guehi’s failed Liverpool move lingers in the background. For weeks leading up to deadline day, speculation was rife that the Reds were keen to bring him to Anfield. With defensive reinforcements a priority, Guehi’s composure, leadership, and Premier League experience made him an ideal target.

But Palace’s stance was firm. Losing their captain so close to the window closing would have left them with little time to find a replacement. In the end, they withdrew from talks, leaving Liverpool frustrated and Guehi still at Selhurst Park.

Reports now suggest that Liverpool will not return with a bid in January, preferring to wait until the summer before reassessing their options. For Guehi, that means at least another half-season leading the Eagles, with the added motivation of proving once again why top clubs are circling.

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Palace’s Perspective

From Crystal Palace’s viewpoint, keeping Guehi was not just about avoiding a defensive crisis but also about maintaining stability. Under manager Oliver Glasner, Palace are in a transitional phase, blending youth with experience. Guehi, as captain, is central to that project.

His performances in the Premier League have already earned him plaudits, and his leadership qualities at just 25 highlight why Palace value him so highly. Losing him in August would have been destabilizing.

Now, with his England stock rising, Palace can argue they made the right call. Not only do they retain their defensive rock, but they also have a player whose value is only increasing.

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What Comes Next?

For Guehi, the immediate task is to return to club duties. Palace face Sunderland this weekend before a high-profile clash against Liverpool later this month. That match, in particular, carries a special narrative: Guehi facing the very team that tried to sign him just weeks ago.

Should he deliver another commanding display, it will serve as another reminder to Liverpool of what they missed out on. For Palace fans, it will be further evidence that their captain is ready to lead them through a challenging campaign.

Looking ahead, Guehi’s England prospects also look brighter than ever. With the World Cup on the horizon, Tuchel is shaping his squad, and competition for places is fierce. A centre-back partnership of Guehi and Konsa could be one that England lean on moving forward, particularly if the pair continue to impress.

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From Heartbreak to Triumph: A Defining Moment

Football careers are often defined by how players respond to setbacks. For Marc Guehi, the collapse of his Liverpool move could have been a distraction, a cloud hanging over his performances. Instead, he has used it as fuel.

Scoring for England in a dominant win, earning praise from Tuchel, and returning to Palace with renewed confidence — these are signs of a player growing into his prime. The missed transfer may yet happen in the future, but for now, Guehi’s focus is clear: lead Palace, shine for England, and continue to prove himself as one of the best young defenders in the Premier League.

As England march towards the World Cup, Guehi’s rise from deadline day heartbreak to international glory stands as one of the most inspiring stories of the season so far.