Pep Guardiola is in the news again, but this time not for a completed signing. Manchester City's coach has lost a player he strongly wanted: Florian Wirtz.
Florian Wirtz, a young German talent, was on the citizens' radar. In fact, it seemed that Manchester City was going to be the winner in the race for his signing. But things changed quickly.
Bayern Munich made an offer of 100 million euros. A huge figure that alerted Pep and his team. According to British sources, City feared the price was exaggerated and preferred to step back.
This blow halts Guardiola's plans. Wirtz was a future bet, a player with quality and youth. But sometimes, the market dictates, and City decided not to take a risk with such a high cost.
Dani Olmo, the new option that attracts Guardiola
With Wirtz ruled out, Pep Guardiola has set his sights on another footballer. This one belongs to a club that is never easy to negotiate with: FC Barcelona.
It is Dani Olmo, a player who has excelled this season with Barça. Olmo has proven to be a solid talent, highly valued within the club. And also outside.
Pep sees in Dani Olmo a footballer who can contribute a lot to City. His style fits the English team's play, and his European experience adds points. That's why Guardiola wants to try.
Barça won't let him go easily
But here is the big problem: Barça is not willing to sell Dani Olmo. This player was a personal bet of Deco, a highly respected figure in the blaugrana sports management.
Deco fully trusts Olmo as part of Barça's future. He sees him as a key element for the team's rebuilding. That's why the club stands firm: Olmo is non-transferable.
This adds tension to the possible operation. Manchester City knows that convincing Barça will be difficult. Not just for money, but for the will of the club and the player himself.
What does this mean for Barça and City?
The rejection of Wirtz's signing and the resistance to letting Olmo go create an interesting scenario. On one hand, City loses a clear opportunity to strengthen with a young German promise. On the other, Barça keeps one of its best talents, vital for its project.
For Guardiola, the search continues. The coach knows that building a competitive team requires patience and strategy. Sometimes, saying "no" is the smartest decision.
For Barça, this situation reaffirms the importance of keeping its young stars. In challenging times, retaining talent is the best way to look to the future with hope.