Manchester City Sign Rayan Aït-Nouri to Bolster Left-Back Options

Manchester City have completed the signing of Algerian international Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a deal reportedly worth £31–36 million, including add-ons. The 24-year-old left-back has signed a five-year contract that keeps him at the Etihad Stadium until at least 2030.

Aït-Nouri, who made 41 appearances for Wolves last season and contributed five goals and seven assists, is expected to provide an immediate boost to City’s defensive ranks. The move comes as part of City manager Pep Guardiola’s ongoing efforts to reinforce key positions ahead of the new Premier League campaign and the Club World Cup, for which Aït-Nouri is eligible.

The signing is viewed as a strategic response to City’s search for a dynamic presence on the left side of defense. With Josko Gvardiol likely to transition back to a central role, Aït-Nouri will compete directly for the starting left-back spot. Known for his technical ability, dribbling, and stamina, the former Wolves defender is seen as an ideal fit for Guardiola’s possession-based game.

Aït-Nouri expressed his excitement at joining the English champions, stating, “This is a dream come true. I am proud to join such a successful club and to have the chance to work under Pep Guardiola with some of the world’s best players.”

Having joined Wolves initially on loan from French side Angers in 2020, before making his stay permanent a year later, Aït-Nouri has amassed more than 150 Premier League appearances. Over his time in England, he has earned praise for both his attacking contributions and his improvement in defensive positioning.

Manchester City’s latest acquisition is seen by analysts as a statement of intent, reinforcing a squad already brimming with talent as they seek to defend domestic and European honors. Aït-Nouri’s arrival also signals the club’s continued focus on recruiting emerging talents capable of sustaining success in the years to come.

The transfer is expected to spark further competition within City’s back line as Guardiola looks to fine-tune his squad for the challenges ahead.

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