Manchester City is poised to offload Egyptian winger Omar Marmoush this January, with Tottenham Hotspur emerging as the leading suitor. The arrival of Antoine Semenyo has limited Marmoush’s chances, and his recent AFCON commitments keep him away from key Premier League matches, making a swift exit highly probable for both clubs.
Season of Uncertainty
Marmoush joined City from VfL Wolfsburg in the summer of 2022 but spent most of his time on loan at VfB Stuttgart and FC Cincinnati Bengals. In the 2023‑24 season he finally broke into the first‑team squad, yet intense competition from Kevin De Bruyne, Riyad Mahrez and the newly‑signed Semenyo has left him on the fringes.
Squad Depth Limits Opportunities
The versatile midfielder‑forward Semenyo offers Pep Guardiola a more dynamic option on the left flank and centrally, effectively eclipsing Marmoush’s utility. City’s hierarchy has already begun scouting potential replacements, with Tottenham identified as the most concrete interested party.
AFCON Commitment Complicates a Return
While Egypt reached the AFCON semi‑final, Marmoush remained with the national team, missing the crucial Manchester derby. The Pharaohs then contested a third‑place play‑off on 17 January, extending his absence from Etihad duties and reducing his chance to impress the coaching staff before the transfer window closes.
Tottenham’s Growing Interest
Spurs are looking to add pace and high‑energy options to a forward line that currently features Dominic Solanke, Richarlison and newcomer Randal Kolo‑Muani. The club views Marmoush as a valuable wing asset capable of injecting speed in transition, and they are prepared to meet City’s valuation.
Implications for Manchester City
Should Marmoush depart, the impact on the pitch will be minimal, but freeing his wages gives City flexibility to activate a clause for a winter signing—potentially a defensive reinforcement or an additional creative midfielder for the upcoming Champions League knockout phase.
Potential Benefits for Marmoush
Moving to Tottenham could provide regular Premier League minutes, allowing Marmoush to showcase his speed and dribbling on a consistent basis. Consistent club performances would also bolster his standing with the Egyptian national team ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
Looking Ahead
The next decisive moment arrives after Egypt’s third‑place play‑off. A win could boost Marmoush’s confidence, while a formal Spurs bid would force City to decide between a swift exit or retaining him as seasonal depth. Fans of both clubs will watch closely as the January window approaches.
