Guehi Talks Playing Until 40, Reveals Passion for Wrestling!

As the colorful leaves of autumn scatter across the pitch at Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi reflects on his journey through the world of football, his ambitions looking forward, and an unexpected passion that might surprise many fans: wrestling.

At just 22 years old, Guehi's prowess on the field belies his youth. Having joined Palace from Chelsea in 2021, his impact was immediate and palpable. His leadership skills shone brightly, quickly earning him the captain's armband in the summer of 2022. It’s a role he cherishes and takes very seriously, acknowledging the responsibility it carries not just on the field, but off it as well.

Guehi’s passion for football was ignited in his early years growing up in Ivory Coast before moving to London at the age of seven. His dedication and natural talent soon saw him scouted by Chelsea’s prestigious academy, where he honed his skills and mindset under rigorous training regimes. Despite the tough competition, Guehi's focus never wavered, aiming consistently to improve his game and carve out a space for himself on the professional stage.

The move to Crystal Palace marked a significant step in Guehi’s career. It wasn't just a transfer; it was an opportunity to stand out and lead. Since then, Marc has been a stalwart in the Palace defense, admired not only for his physical play but for his strategic mind and ability to read the game. In his words, “It’s about finding ways to be better, each game, every training. That’s what drives me.”

Future Aspirations and Holistic Development

Looking to the future, Guehi's ambition is not just to play at the highest level but to ensure longevity in his career. Inspired by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James, who have both dominated their respective sports well into their 30s, Guehi is keenly aware of the importance of physical and mental fitness. “You’ve got to take care of your body, and your mind, to stay at the top,” he says. Nutrition, recovery, and mental conditioning are areas he focuses on meticulously, aiming to sustain peak performance for as long as possible.

The Intersection of Football and Wrestling

Off the pitch, Guehi harbors a love for wrestling, a hobby that he believes complements his football career by enhancing his mental toughness and physical edge. Wrestling, much like football, requires a blend of strategy, strength, and resilience, traits that Guehi exemplifies whenever he steps onto the football field. He draws parallels between the two sports, noting that both require “an element of performance, an understanding of your opponent's next move, and the ability to execute your game plan under pressure.”

Marc’s involvement in wrestling started during his teenage years and remains a vital outlet for him. He enjoys not only the physical aspects but also the larger-than-life personas and the narratives that play out in the wrestling world, which provide a stark, entertaining contrast to the more serious, disciplined nature of professional football. Wrestling gives him a chance to unwind, relax, and sometimes just be a fan, something essential in managing the pressures of football.

Advice to Aspiring Athletes

For young athletes looking up to him, Guehi advises resilience and patience. The road to professional sports is fraught with challenges and setbacks, but it’s perseverance that makes all the difference. “Keep pushing, keep learning, and never be afraid to take opportunities,” he suggests, drawing from his own experiences from youth leagues to the Premier League.

As the captain of Crystal Palace, Marc Guehi not only dreams of leading his team to greater successes but also of inspiring a new generation of footballers. His story—a blend of discipline, passion for multiple sports, and a focus on holistic development—paints the portrait of a modern athlete who is as strategic about his career choices as he is about every move on the field. With a bright future ahead, Guehi's journey is one to watch, both as a footballer and a wrestling enthusiast.