By Martin Graham
Manchester City has officially announced the arrival of Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Algerian international has agreed to a five-year deal at the Etihad Stadium, with the total package for the transfer reported to be £36.3 million. That figure includes £31.3 million in guaranteed payments and an additional £5 million tied to performance-based incentives.
The 24-year-old full-back was one of Wolves’ standout performers during the previous campaign, despite the team enduring a challenging season in the Premier League. His departure follows that of Matheus Cunha, who recently made the move to Manchester United, becoming another key player to leave Molineux.
Aït-Nouri shared his enthusiasm after completing the switch, calling it a major step in his career. “I am incredibly happy and honoured to have joined Manchester City,” he said in his first interview with the club’s media team. He also highlighted his eagerness to work under Pep Guardiola and to compete alongside a squad filled with top-tier talent. “This is a proud moment for my family as well, and I’m excited to get started and play in front of our fans,” he added.
Hugo Viana, City’s director of football, expressed his satisfaction with the signing. He explained that the club had been tracking Aït-Nouri’s development closely over an extended period. According to Viana, the defender’s previous experience in the English top flight and his international exposure with Algeria were key factors in their decision.
Viana also pointed out that City view the player as a long-term asset. “At 24, we believe he has great potential and will benefit immensely from working with Pep and the coaching team,” he said. He stressed that the new signing is expected to contribute significantly to the club’s ambition of continued success in both domestic and international competitions.
The deal has been completed in time for Aït-Nouri to be included in the squad for the upcoming Club World Cup. City is preparing for that tournament and is hoping to finalize two additional arrivals before it begins. Negotiations for AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders are reportedly at an advanced stage, while Lyon’s Rayan Cherki is also close to finalizing a move to the Etihad.
