Etihad Shake-Up: Manchester City Lure Aït-Nouri Away from Wolves in Stealthy Swoop

Guardiola Gets His Man: Rayan Aït-Nouri Swaps Wolves for City in Summer Stunner

In a move few saw coming, Manchester City have bolstered their backline with the signing of dynamic Algerian full-back Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The 24-year-old has inked a five-year contract at the Etihad, tying him to the Premier League champions until 2030. Known for his silky footwork and relentless energy up the flank, Aït-Nouri arrives with a growing reputation as one of the league’s most exciting left-backs.

“His attacking instincts and defensive tenacity have made him a standout in the top flight,” City said in a statement. “With four goals and seven assists last season alone, he was a key figure in Wolves’ top-tier survival push.”

The French-born defender’s journey began in the grassroots ranks of Val de Fontenay and Paris FC, before catching the eye at Angers, where he signed his first professional deal in 2018. A senior debut against PSG marked the beginning of his rise, which accelerated following his loan to Wolves in 2020. His performances earned him a permanent stay at Molineux, where he went on to make over 130 appearances and become a fan favourite.

Reflecting on his City switch, Aït-Nouri said:

> “Joining Manchester City is beyond a dream—it’s a moment of pride for me and my family. I’m thrilled to be part of a club with such ambition, and I’m looking forward to learning from Pep and competing alongside some of the world’s best players. I’m ready to give everything for this badge.”

City's latest acquisition adds yet more depth and flair to a squad already brimming with world-class talent—another calculated step in their pursuit of continued dominance.