‘His talent is being wasted’ – Rayan Ait-Nouri’s camp pushes to end Manchester City frustration

Rayan Ait-Nouri’s representatives are pushing for the defender to leave Manchester City in January, insisting the Algerian international cannot afford to remain at the club while his talent is being wasted through a lack of playing time.

The 25-year-old has struggled to establish himself as a regular at the Etihad Stadium since joining Manchester City from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer of 2025.

Despite making an encouraging start to life under Pep Guardiola, Ait-Nouri has gradually slipped down the pecking order and is now finding opportunities difficult to secure.

He has managed just four appearances across all competitions this season, accumulating only 168 minutes of playing time.

The situation has raised concerns within his camp, with his representatives believing the defender needs a fresh challenge to get his career back on track.

According to French publication L’Équipe, Ait-Nouri’s entourage is already exploring possible solutions ahead of the January transfer window, with interest from the Premier League and other European leagues providing potential opportunities.

“We have to find the best solution with Manchester City. He can’t remain in a situation where his talent is wasted,” his entourage told L’Équipe.

Manchester United and Juventus previously showed interest

Ait-Nouri’s uncertain future at Manchester City is not entirely new, with the defender having attracted interest from other clubs during the final stages of the previous summer transfer window.

Manchester United were among those keen on securing his services, making an approach late in the window as they sought to strengthen their options at left-back.

L’Équipe understands that the Old Trafford outfit explored the possibility of signing the Algerian on an initial loan deal with an option to buy.

However, the proposed move failed to materialise, with Manchester City reluctant to sanction a transfer that would strengthen their fierce rivals.

Juventus also registered interest in the former Wolverhampton Wanderers defender, although no agreement was reached.

The failed attempts to secure an exit meant Ait-Nouri remained at the Etihad Stadium, where his opportunities have continued to be limited.

With the January window approaching, his representatives are now expected to revisit the possibility of a departure in search of a club where he can enjoy more regular football.

Ait-Nouri retains strong transfer value

Despite his struggles for minutes this season, Ait-Nouri’s camp believes the defender remains an attractive proposition in the transfer market.

His previous performances in the Premier League, particularly during his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers, have established his reputation as an attacking full-back capable of making an impact at the highest level.

His entourage believes there is still considerable interest in his services within England, while clubs outside the Premier League could also enter the race.

“We have to find the best solution with Manchester City,” his representatives reiterated, stressing the importance of finding a suitable destination rather than allowing his development to stagnate.

Ait-Nouri’s immediate future will therefore depend on Manchester City’s willingness to sanction his departure and the terms of any potential agreement.

Having arrived at the Etihad Stadium with expectations of competing for major honours, the Algerian now faces an important decision about his next career move as he seeks to secure the regular playing time that has eluded him this season.