Rayan Aït Nouri impresses in new attacking role for Manchester City

Rayan Aït Nouri’s move further forward at Manchester City is beginning to look like a serious option after the Algeria international provided two assists in a 5-0 Carabao Cup win over Norwich City.

The 25-year-old, who has 33 caps for Algeria, has traditionally operated as a full-back or left wing-back. But Manchester City have now used him in a more advanced role, with his first start as a winger coming against Norwich on Thursday.

Aït Nouri responded with an impressive attacking display, setting up two goals as City cruised to victory in the third round of the Carabao Cup.

It was his first official start of the season and took his tally to three goal contributions from two appearances. He had previously provided an assist after coming off the bench against FC Porto in the UEFA Champions League.

His latest performance could strengthen the case for continuing to use him in an attacking position.

City manager Enzo Maresca has already shown that he sees Aït Nouri differently from the traditional full-back role he has occupied for much of his career.

Maresca believes the Algerian’s technical ability and attacking qualities can be better used further forward rather than giving him primarily defensive responsibilities.

The two assists against Norwich offered an early indication of what Aït Nouri could provide when given more freedom in the final third.

The situation could also provide Algeria coach Brahim Hemdani with another option as he prepares for the national team’s upcoming training camp from 21 September to 0 October.

Aït Nouri has been included in Hemdani’s squad as a defender, reflecting the position he has traditionally played.

Could Aït Nouri follow Bale’s path?

The idea of Aït Nouri becoming a permanent winger has inevitably drawn comparisons with Gareth Bale, who began his career as a full-back before developing into an attacking player.

Bale made the transition during his time with Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur before establishing himself as a winger capable of regularly causing problems for opposing defences.

Aït Nouri’s situation is not identical, with differences in their physical attributes and playing styles. He is also not expected to possess the same finishing ability as the former Wales international.

However, his ability to create space and contribute in the final third could make the attacking role an option worth exploring.

Aït Nouri was not involved during Manchester City’s most recent Premier League match and has yet to play a minute in the competition this season.

His strong showing against Norwich therefore arrives at an important moment as he looks to establish his place in the team.

For Algeria, the possibility of Aït Nouri operating as a winger could also be significant. Since Youcef Belaïli’s departure, the national side has struggled to find a consistent option on the left.

Amoura and Gouiri have not established themselves in that position, while Boulbina is still trying to make the next step.

Aït Nouri’s latest performance could therefore give Hemdani another possibility to consider as he prepares Algeria’s squad.