Rayan Aït-Nouri says joining Manchester City marks the realisation of a lifelong ambition after completing his transfer from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Algerian international, who spent five seasons with Wolves, spoke with emotion and pride ahead of his anticipated debut for the Premier League champions.
His move to the Etihad Stadium signals a significant step in his career and offers the chance to compete among Europe’s elite.
“It’s a dream come true. Joining one of the best clubs in the world, with so many great players… I’m very proud. I’ve worked hard to get here,” Aït-Nouri told Sky Sports, reflecting on the magnitude of the moment.
The 23-year-old left-back was developed at Angers in France before earning a move to the Premier League at just 19.
Since arriving at Molineux, he has grown into a reliable and versatile defender, admired for his composure, technical ability, and attacking instincts.
His departure from Wolverhampton, where he played a key role across multiple seasons, was marked by genuine sentiment.
“It was a lot of emotions… I spent five wonderful years there, with incredible people. But today, I want to give everything for Manchester City,” he added.
Now part of Pep Guardiola’s highly competitive squad, Aït-Nouri is preparing to feature for City at the upcoming Club World Cup, a potential stage for him to make an immediate impression in sky blue.
City’s interest in the Algerian had been long-rumoured, and his arrival adds depth and flexibility to the left flank.
For Aït-Nouri, the opportunity to work under Guardiola and compete at the highest level represents the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance.
At a formative point in his career, the move comes with heightened expectations, but the defender appears ready to embrace the challenge.
Known for his focus and quiet determination, Aït-Nouri has made it clear he is not at City merely to make up the numbers.
With his first training sessions underway and his debut drawing closer, Aït-Nouri stands on the brink of a new era—one that began with a dream and now continues with the promise of competing for silverware at the highest level of the game.
