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5 hours ago
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Manchester City are aiming to make some changes to the roster as manager Pep Guardiola is keen to rebuild the team and reclaim the lost glory.
City already have a bloated squad, and while there will be enough changes this summer, there's a lot of competition in midfield. Therefore, as per Sky Sports, Manchester City academy graduate James McAtee may be on his way out of the Etihad.
The young midfielder's current contract runs till 2026 and the club hasn't offer him fresh contract so he is weighing his options this summer.
As per reports, Bundesliga giants, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund are the two clubs interested in the England U-21 star. Premier Leaguie club Nottingham Forest are also in contention if the youngster prefers to stay in England.
Guardiola, after the City's 3-1 win over Bournemouth, highlighted his dissatisfaction over selection dilemma.
“Leaving so many players out is impossible for my soul,” he said, even threatening to “quit as manager if the club does not reduce the size of his squad this summer.”
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This puts McAtee's position at the club in a spot of bother. However, it was Guardiola, who blocked his loan move to Leverkusen in the January window as the youngster was apparently in his plans.
Where could McAtee end up this summer?
With every passing day, it is looking unlikely that the 22-year-old will remain at the Etihad beyond this summer. However, if City manage to show him a clear development plan, then he may change his decision to leave.
While club icon Kevin de Bruyne is on his way out, City have already initiated talks with AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. The deal is far from getting closed, it suggests that the competition for places in midfield will only increase in the upcoming seasons.
Now, it remains to be seen what decision McAtee takes. He may follow the path of senior England internationals like Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho. Both Leverkusen and Dortmund are clubs known for nurturing young talent.
Also, the fast-paced football in the Bundesliga may actually suit the youngster's style of play, and as both clubs are set to feature in the Champions League next season, he would get great exposure and a platform to develop as a player.
Even a move to Nottingham Forest could work in his favour as he will get an opportunity to prove himself under an experienced manager like Nuno Espirito Santo.
Either way, a move out of the Eithad looks extremely likely and is also needed, looking at his overall development and growth.
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