Algeria coach Petkovic issues firm reminder to Aït-Nouri and Manchester City

Algeria head coach Vladimir Petkovic has issued a clear directive to defender Rayan Aït-Nouri amid his anticipated transfer to Premier League champions Manchester City.

The 23-year-old left-back, currently on the verge of a high-profile move from Wolverhampton Wanderers, was absent from the squad list as Algeria secured a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in a friendly held in Constantine on Thursday.

The match forms part of the Fennecs’ preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the final phase of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Although not involved on the pitch, Aït-Nouri, who has earned 13 caps for Algeria, was present in the stands. Reports indicate that the Montreuil-born player is scheduled to travel to England on Saturday to undergo a medical with Manchester City ahead of finalising his transfer.

Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that the deal is in its final stages, with a fee in the region of €40 million agreed between the clubs.

However, Petkovic made it clear in his post-match press conference that Aït-Nouri’s move will not excuse him from national duty.

The Algerian coach stated unequivocally that the player is expected to report for the team’s next fixture, a friendly against Sweden on Sunday in Stockholm.

“I do not comment on my players’ transfer matters. That’s their personal business,” said Petkovic. “But he will have to be with us for Sweden. That is not negotiable.”

Aït-Nouri’s proposed switch to Manchester City marks a significant step in his career, with the full-back set to join a squad competing at the highest level domestically and in Europe.

His move comes as City prepare for their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, where they will face Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca in their opening match on 18 June.

Despite the excitement surrounding his transfer, Petkovic’s message serves as a reminder that national commitments remain a priority.

With key international competitions on the horizon, including the 2025 AFCON and the continuation of World Cup qualifying, the Algerian manager appears intent on ensuring that all players remain focused on the collective goals of the national side.

The 2-0 win over Rwanda was seen as a solid start to the international break for Algeria, who are keen to build momentum ahead of competitive fixtures.

The squad, featuring a mix of regular starters and emerging talent, delivered a controlled performance in front of their home fans.

But it is the decisions and preparations off the field—such as the integration of Aït-Nouri amid his looming club move—that Petkovic is managing just as closely.

As the Algerian squad heads to Scandinavia for their next match, all eyes will be on whether Aït-Nouri rejoins the team as instructed, balancing his international obligations with the excitement of a career-defining transfer.

His future with Manchester City may be on the horizon, but for now, the message from Vladimir Petkovic is unambiguous: national duty comes first.

Petkovic sur Ait Nouri : “Je ne commente pas les transferts de mes joueurs. Il a ses affaires à régler mais il devra etre avec nous pour la Suède.” pic.twitter.com/F12BApNJUe

— La Gazette du Fennec (@LGDFennec) June 5, 2025