James McAtee sends six-word message after Man City exit claim
James McAtee has had limited minutes since Manchester City decided to keep him in the January transfer window, but has posted an update amid speculation about his future.
McAtee had several clubs vying for his signature during the winter window, with many believing a move was likely due to his lack of game time.
Football Insider revealed before the window that McAtee could push to leave Man City after playing just 26 minutes of Premier League football before January.
Despite this, no move materialised, with the club opting to keep him amid heavy interest.
Although he has seen an increased role in Guardiola’s first-team squad since the window closed, Mick Brown, former Manchester United and Blackburn chief scout, exclusively told Football Insider that Manchester City are open to offers for McAtee come the end of the season.
With his future still uncertain, McAtee has shared an update on social media, keeping fans intrigued amid ongoing speculation.
Pep Guardiola offered public backing for James McAtee amid transfer speculation
McAtee posted on Instagram after receiving a call-up to the England Under-21s under Lee Carsley, saying, “Good to be back with the lads.”
Since the January transfer window closed, McAtee has seen more game time, starting in City’s FA Cup win against Plymouth and coming off the bench in three of the last five Premier League matches.
Pep Guardiola publicly backed McAtee ahead of the transfer deadline, saying, “I need him” despite the growing interest in the player [The Standard]. It appears, though, that his role in the squad will remain limited, with opportunities still few and far between.
It’s likely still not enough to appease the midfielder, whose exit seemed almost inevitable, with West Ham, Bayer Leverkusen, and Crystal Palace all showing interest in McAtee.
| Season statistics | James McAtee |
| Appearances | 21 |
| Starts | 9 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 0 |
Man City’s rebuilding phase could lead to James McAtee’s exit
City were busy in the latest transfer window, purchasing the likes of Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez and Abdukodir Khusanov, indicating a potential rebuild is already underway at the Etihad.
Former City financial adviser Stefan Borson revealed to Football Insider that the Man City would demand a £30-35million fee for McAtee, which would represent pure profit on their books.
After a disappointing season and with more signings expected in the summer, McAtee’s future at the club remains uncertain. However, should a sale go ahead, City will be hoping McAtee doesn’t follow the same path as Cole Palmer, with the club ultimately regretting the decision to let him go.