Rayan Ait-Nouri given January exit route by Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca

Rayan Ait-Nouri is reportedly close to leaving Manchester City in January after falling out of favour with manager Enzo Maresca.

Football Insider reports that Maresca is unconvinced by the Algeria international’s ability and has given him permission to depart the club during the winter transfer window.

The 25-year-old left-back has been linked with a move to Manchester United, who are seeking to strengthen their options on the left side of their defence.

Italian reports have also suggested that Juventus are interested in signing Ait-Nouri during the January transfer window.

Manchester City signed Ait-Nouri from Wolverhampton in the summer of 2025, during Pep Guardiola’s time as manager. The club paid £31m for the defender, who agreed a five-year contract.

Ait-Nouri contributed to five goals in 28 appearances for Manchester City in all competitions last season. However, he missed most of December and January while representing Algeria at the Africa Cup of Nations.

His opportunities have become more limited this season. Ait-Nouri has not played in the Premier League for Manchester City during the 2026-2027 campaign so far.

He has made only two substitute appearances in the Champions League and has started twice in the English League Cup.