Much like Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri looked like an instant fit in this Manchester City side on his debut against Al Ain.
The former Wolves defender was tasked to hug the touchline and drift into midfield, two roles he played to perfection as the 24-year-old was one of City’s biggest threats in the final third.
Omar Marmoush lauded Ait-Nouri after his debut as he looked like the real deal.
With Ait-Nouri set to partake at AFCON later this year, based on his latest heroics, the Sky Blues could miss the Algerian’s presence as the signs suggest that he could become a very important player for them.
Manchester City FC v Al Ain FC: Group G - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Rayan Ait-Nouri says Pep Guardiola has given him ‘freedom’
Rayan Ait-Nouri was a breath of fresh air in this Manchester City side, as for years, they have lacked an attacking full-back in their ranks who can worry opposition defences.
Ait-Nouri called Pep Guardiola a “great coach” before even signing for City and based on his first outing, the Etihad faithful can expect him to become a favourite of the Catalan’s next season.
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After Manchester City’s victory against Al Ain, the Montreuil-born technician revealed via The Mirror that Pep Guardiola has given him the freedom to play his natural game: “He has told me to play my natural game without pressure. You know, drive with the ball, cross also in the box. I try to respect the advice he gives me. Hopefully, we’ll be good for the next few stages.”
“It was freedom. I’m very happy to play like this without the pressure. I like to drive the ball to the post for the striker. It’s part of my game right now.”
Ait-Nouri revealed Manchester City were his dream club due to their style of play and the stats indicate how influential he was against Al Ain.
RAYAN AIT-NOURI STATS VS AL AIN
DRIBBLED PAST 0
DUELS WON 8
DRIBBLES COMPLETED 4/6 (67%)
PASSES INTO THE FINAL THIRD 4
ACCURATE PASSES 56/59 (95%)
TOUCHES IN OPPOSITION BOX 7
The City new-boy added: “It’s a big honour. I can improve a lot with him. We saw in the last few years he made a lot of things. He wins every time with this team. He’s the best manager, but I’m very happy to work with him. For sure, I will improve my football.”
Pep Guardiola praised Ait-Nouri after Man City debut
Ait-Nouri could start against Juventus after how brilliant he looked in a Manchester City shirt against Al Ain.
The ex-Angers man will be looking forward to the contest after being handed a boost in confidence after making a good impression during his previous outing.
Pep Guardiola lauded Ait-Nouri’s display against Al Ain for Manchester City as well.
“Wow, he played very good because we had to defend a back four and then a back five, he had to arrive in the end.”
Pep Guardiola concluded: “At the end, he played really good. It’s his first game but he’s played in the Premier League for many years.”