OFFICIAL: Rayan Aït-Nouri Joins Manchester City on Long-Term Deal
Manchester City have officially announced the signing of Algerian left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The 23-year-old has committed to a five-year contract with the Premier League champions, with the deal reportedly costing City €37 million, plus additional performance-related clauses.
Aït-Nouri becomes City’s first major signing of the summer, as manager Pep Guardiola looks to refresh his squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The defender was high on Guardiola’s shortlist, viewed as a crucial addition to reinforce the left side of City’s backline and contribute to the tactical versatility that defines the club’s playing style.
Aït-Nouri’s Development and Premier League Breakthrough
Rayan Aït-Nouri made a strong impression in English football following his move to Wolverhampton in 2020. Quickly adapting to the pace and physicality of the Premier League, he gained a reputation for his agility, technical ability, and forward-minded approach. Over three seasons, he accumulated over 100 appearances, becoming a consistent performer and a fan favourite at Molineux.
His ability to drive forward, deliver quality crosses, and defend with discipline caught the attention of top clubs, but it was Guardiola who moved decisively. The Spaniard values full-backs who can operate in multiple phases of play, and Aït-Nouri’s comfort both in wide and inverted positions makes him a perfect fit for City’s fluid system.
Guardiola’s Plans and City’s Transfer Strategy
The signing of Aït-Nouri aligns with Pep Guardiola’s vision to inject new energy and flexibility into the squad. With the likes of Joško Gvardiol often used centrally and Nathan Aké rotated at left-back, Aït-Nouri adds a more natural and attacking presence on the left flank, offering a different dimension in buildup and wide play.
This move also signals the beginning of what could be a busy transfer window for City. The club is now actively pursuing deals for AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders and Lyon’s attacking talent Rayan Cherki. Both are seen as strategic reinforcements as City aim to stay ahead domestically and in Europe.
As Aït-Nouri prepares to link up with his new teammates, expectations are high. The Algerian international is poised to play a key role in Guardiola’s evolving setup — one that continues to blend youth, technical excellence, and tactical intelligence in pursuit of more silverware.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0