Transfer Market: Manchester City comments on Aït-Nouri's future!

Oct 26, 2026

Rayan Aït-Nouri's situation at Manchester City is becoming increasingly concerning. Arriving in the summer of 2025 from Wolverhampton for around £36 million, the Algerian left-back is struggling to establish himself at the Citizens. A lack of continuity could hasten his departure as early as the next winter transfer window, according to the English press.

Since the start of the season, the Fennec has only played three matches across all competitions. His only start came in the English League Cup against Norwich City, while his appearances in the Champions League against Porto and AEK Athens were limited to just a few minutes. In the Premier League, the 25-year-old defender has yet to step onto the pitch this season.

This is a notable decline for someone who played 31 matches in his first season at Manchester City. The arrival of Enzo Maresca as head coach may have reshuffled the deck. The Italian manager reportedly favors Nico O’Reilly and Joško Gvardiol for the left-back position, while competition on the wings further reduces the opportunities available to the Algerian.

A January departure increasingly likely

In this context, Manchester City may be open to a departure this winter. A transfer to Manchester United was already discussed in the final hours of the summer transfer window, but it did not materialize as the Sky Blues' demands complicated negotiations.

Several options remain to be monitored. In Italy, Juventus continues to follow the situation and has reportedly maintained contact with the player's entourage. AC Milan is also among the interested clubs, while Tottenham is mentioned in England.

However, Manchester City would prefer a deal that includes an obligation to buy, with a valuation estimated at around €40 million. It remains to be seen if any of the interested parties will accept these terms. For Aït-Nouri, winter could represent an opportunity to revive a Manchester career that has struggled to take off.

DZfoot