A season to forget, that sums up Manchester United’s season. The Old Trafford club closed the Premier League in 15th position, the worst in its history in the modern era. The numbers don’t lie: lack of cohesion, niggling injuries, dubious decisions from the bench and a defence unable to keep its composure in key games. As if that wasn’t enough, the Europa League final loss to Tottenham sealed their total absence from European competition next season. The blow is not only sporting; financially, it means less revenue and more doubts in the market.
Manchester City initiate talks with Manchester United target who is a left-back
As fans process this debacle, the focus begins to turn to the transfer market. Fabrizio Romano revealed that Manchester City have already asked for transfer terms for Wolverhampton full-back Rayan Aït-Nouri. According to the journalist, the player is high on the list of reinforcements for the left-back spot. The interest is not new, but this time there are active talks. At the same time, media outlets such as Football365 reported that United are still keeping an eye on the player, having considered a move a year ago. The Reds are looking for competition and depth in that area, knowing that Luke Shaw has had ongoing physical problems.
That City have made the first move changes the picture. For United, it is not just about signing the Algerian out of tactical necessity, but about keeping some competitive pride alive. Without Europe, with a shaky project and no club guarantees, seducing a player with more stable options becomes an uphill task.
Why are Manchester City pursuing Manchester United's left-back target Rayan Ait-Nouri, and how could this impact United’s transfer plans?
Why are Manchester City pursuing Manchester United’s left-back target Rayan Ait-Nouri, and how could this impact United’s transfer plans?
City offer minutes, structure and an established coach. United, on the other hand, have unanswered questions and an unattractive climate for growing talent. Aït-Nouri is no stranger to that. Young players don’t just look at the salary: they consider their potential, the environment, and the club’s backing. If City move forward decisively, it is very difficult to think that the player would prioritise joining a project that has just hit rock bottom.
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However, there is one angle that deserves attention. United could still compete for the 23-year-old if they decide to move quickly and show clear signs of rebuilding. Sometimes, the crumbling project offers a unique opportunity: absolute prominence. At City, Aït-Nouri would be one of a rich and deep squad. At Old Trafford, he could become an undisputed starter and a symbol of a new era. This promise of centrality and relevance could weigh heavily, if it is presented sincerely and concretely. But there is no room for error or hesitation.
Moreover, there is one thing that the reports do not highlight: Aït-Nouri has a technical profile that would fit better with a system that gives him offensive freedom. Under certain coaches, that characteristic can flourish. The problem is that at United, right now, it is not even known who will make the sporting decisions. Disarray can be lethal, and in the face of that, silence or doubt outweighs any salary or promise. For now, all indications are that City have the upper hand, but the outcome still depends on who acts with conviction.