Algerian star Rayan Aït-Nouri relishes ‘dream move’ to Manchester City ahead of Club World Cup debut

Rayan Aït-Nouri has described his transfer to Manchester City as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream, as he prepares for his highly anticipated debut at the FIFA Club World Cup.

The 23-year-old Algerian left-back, who spent five seasons with Wolverhampton Wanderers, completed a summer move to the reigning European champions and is now set to make his first appearance in City colours against Wydad Casablanca this Wednesday.

“It’s a dream come true to sign for one of the best clubs in the world,” Aït-Nouri told Sky Sports in his first interview since joining the Premier League giants.

“There are so many great players here, and it makes me proud to be part of this team. I’ve worked hard since arriving in England to reach this point.”

Aït-Nouri, who began his senior career in Ligue 1 with Angers, made the switch to the Premier League at just 19. Over the course of five seasons at Molineux, he developed into one of the league’s most reliable full-backs.

His consistent growth, even during turbulent periods — particularly under the management of Julen Lopetegui — earned him a reputation for resilience and maturity well beyond his years.

Now, he faces a new challenge under the leadership of Pep Guardiola, a manager he greatly admires and sees as crucial to his next phase of development.

“With Guardiola, I know I’m going to progress a lot,” said Aït-Nouri. “Everyone recognises he’s the best coach in the world, and we’ve all seen what he’s achieved with Manchester City. I’m excited to learn from him every day.”

While excited by the opportunity to compete at the highest level, the Algerian international took a moment to reflect on his departure from Wolverhampton, expressing deep gratitude for the club that helped launch his career in English football.

“It was very emotional leaving Wolves,” he admitted. “I spent five years there with fantastic people — teammates, staff, fans. I made many friends and shared great memories.

But now, I’m here, and my focus is entirely on giving everything for Manchester City.”

Aït-Nouri’s move has also been welcomed by fans of the Algerian national team, who see his development at City as a major boost ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Known for his agility, defensive intelligence, and composure on the ball, the Montreuil-born defender is eager to shine on both domestic and international stages.

Currently with City’s squad in the United States, Aït-Nouri will feature in the opening match of the Club World Cup against Moroccan champions Wydad Casablanca.

The fixture, scheduled for a 5:00 p.m. kickoff, marks a new chapter for the player — one filled with ambition and the pressure to perform from day one.

For Aït-Nouri, the journey from Angers to Manchester has been anything but straightforward. But with talent, perseverance, and now, the guidance of one of football’s most respected tacticians, the Algerian star believes he is ready to seize the moment.