Man City Star’s Praise Proven True After Etihad Move
Rayan Ait-Nouri is making his mark at Manchester City after his summer transfer from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The full-back is beginning to showcase his talents following an initial struggle to adapt.
Transfer Details
Ait-Nouri, a 24-year-old Algeria international, joined Manchester City for a fee of £36.3 million. His impressive performance at Wolverhampton last season caught the attention of several top clubs, including Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal. However, he opted for City after consulting with former player Riyad Mahrez.
Impact of Mahrez
Mahrez played a crucial role in Ait-Nouri’s decision to sign with Manchester City. The defender recalled his conversations with Mahrez while still at Wolverhampton. He stated, “He told me the city was great, and that we’d be warmly welcomed in the dressing room. Everything he told me was true.”
Initial Struggles
Despite starting all three of City’s opening matches in the Premier League, Ait-Nouri faced challenges. An ankle injury sidelined him for September and October, causing him to lose his starting position to teammate Nico O’Reilly.
Road to Recovery
Upon returning from injury, Ait-Nouri had limited appearances, making only two league appearances before heading to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Although Algeria exited in the quarter-finals, Ait-Nouri used the experience to regain his form. He has since reclaimed the left-back position, with O’Reilly now pushing forward into a midfield role.
Team Dynamics
His teammates have taken notice of his improvements. After a recent victory against Fulham, O’Reilly commented positively on Ait-Nouri’s contributions. He said, “Rayan is doing so good at left-back as well.” This camaraderie bodes well for his continued development at Manchester City.
Conclusion
The transition has not been smooth for Ait-Nouri, but his perseverance is resonating within the team. As he settles in, fans can look forward to seeing more from this promising talent at the Etihad Stadium.
