Manchester City has officially signed Eintracht Frankfurt forward Omar Marmoush for what is reported to be about £59 million, along with potential add-ons bringing the total fee to around £63 million. The transfer was completed on January 23, 2025, with Marmoush securing a four-and-a-half-year deal, ensuring he will stay with the club until the summer of 2029.
After finalizing his move, the 25-year-old Egyptian striker expressed his joy, stating, "This is a day I will never forget. To sign for Manchester City – one of the best teams in the world – is an amazing feeling. I am delighted, my family are so proud, and we are all very happy to be here in Manchester." He emphasized the appeal of the club's environment, citing Pep Guardiola, his technical staff, and the world-class facilities as major attractions for him. "With Pep, his technical staff and the world-class facilities here, players have everything they need to improve. That was really enticing for me when I had the chance to come here," said Marmoush.
Marmoush's arrival marks Manchester City's third signing during the January transfer window, following the acquisitions of defenders Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis. This latest move follows the club's strategy to bolster their attacking options after selling Julian Alvarez to Atlético Madrid. Having been the second top scorer in the Bundesliga behind Harry Kane this season, Marmoush brings significant firepower to City's roster.
During his time at Eintracht Frankfurt, Marmoush had been tearing through defenses, amassing 20 goals and 13 assists across all competitions this season. He had previously joined Frankfurt on a free transfer from Wolfsburg, quickly establishing his reputation as one of the Bundesliga’s standout players. His past career saw him honed through various clubs, including Wadi Degla, Wolfsburg's reserve team, and loans at St Pauli and VfB Stuttgart.
Director of Football at Manchester City, Txiki Begiristain, praised Marmoush, referring to him as “an accomplished and exciting forward.” He acknowledged the striker's impactful performance this season, noting, “He has outstanding pace and awareness, and he is exceptional in front of goal.” These attributes are precisely what City has sought to integrate more attacking depth.
The new signing has previously drawn comparisons to fellow Egyptian international Mohamed Salah, who cautioned against such comparisons. “Omar has great potential and is an important player for his team and the national team currently, but I hope we stay away from the idea of comparisons because it will put him under pressure,” Salah said. Nevertheless, Marmoush sees Salah as one of his inspirations, as he aspires to achieve similar success on the pitch.
Despite being hailed for his achievements, Marmoush is aware of the challenges and pressure of joining such a prestigious club. “I cannot deny I also want to win trophies,” he remarked, acknowledging the winning culture at Manchester City. “City have been the most successful club in England for many, many years, so I know I am joining a winning environment and winning culture. I want to learn from the staff and my teammates, and I want to become a valued member of this winning team.”
City's current season has not met expectations, with them sitting fifth in the Premier League and struggling to secure Champions League progression. Marmoush's signing intends to inject some much-needed energy and competition within the squad, particularly alongside top scorer Erling Haaland, who remains their only specialist striker due to Alvarez's departure.
Heading forward, the club continues to seek additional reinforcements. They have shown interest in adding another midfielder and have reportedly been targeting Real Valladolid defender Juma Bah. With the January window still open, the focus is on whether City can position themselves for another run at the Premier League title and European success with their latest signings.
Overall, Omar Marmoush’s transfer to Manchester City reflects both his individual talent and the club’s ambition to reclaim dominance, especially after their recent struggles. The Egyptian forward's determination to make his mark at the Etihad Stadium starts now, as he gears up to become part of Pep Guardiola's dynamic attacking unit.