Michael Brown questions Manchester City’s handling of Rayan Ait-Nouri

Rayan Ait-Nouri’s limited involvement at Manchester City has drawn criticism from former Citizens midfielder Michael Brown, who says he cannot understand the treatment of the Algeria international under Enzo Maresca.

The left-back was left out of the squad entirely for Manchester City’s 1-0 defeat by Brighton on Saturday, 31 October. That omission came only days after Ait-Nouri had played the second half against the same opponents in the League Cup on Wednesday.

His first-team involvement has been restricted since the start of the season. Ait-Nouri has made four appearances in all competitions, totalling 167 minutes, but has yet to play a minute in the Premier League.

Brown, whose comments were reported by Moncef Futbol, has highlighted what he sees as a discrepancy between the assurances given to Ait-Nouri and the player’s actual use so far this campaign. The former Manchester City player has questioned why the Algeria international is struggling to secure regular opportunities.

The situation has also prompted discussions about Ait-Nouri’s future at the club, with a January departure now a possibility.

Manchester United and Everton are among the clubs monitoring his position. Interest has also been reported from clubs in Italy, Spain and Germany.

Manchester City are understood to be open to a loan arrangement that could include conditions leading to a permanent transfer. Africafoot has reported that Manchester United are considering a loan move for the Algeria international.

Ait-Nouri remains under contract with Manchester City until June 2030. The 25-year-old is valued at 35m euros by Transfermarkt, despite his uncertain position within the squad.

His lack of playing time has therefore increased the possibility of a move during the winter transfer window, with the next stage of his career in Manchester increasingly unclear.

Manchester City’s next fixture will be their 10th league match of the season, against Nottingham Forest.