Unhappy’ Manchester City star wants to leave the club as soon as the January window opens

City are enduring their worst form since Guardiola took charge in 2016, winning just once in their last 13 matches across all competitions. On Boxing Day, they drew 1-1 with Everton at the Etihad Stadium. Bernardo Silva’s opener was cancelled out by Iliman Ndiaye’s goal, and Erling Haaland missed a chance to secure victory when Jordan Pickford saved his penalty.

City are now seventh in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 14 points, with Arne Slot’s side holding a game in hand. The prospect of a fifth consecutive title defense appears unlikely. City face Leicester tomorrow at the King Power Stadium in their final match of 2024, after which the January transfer window will open.

Speculation surrounds possible squad changes, with James McAtee among those who might leave. The 22-year-old is reportedly seeking regular playing time after limited opportunities this season, featuring eight times in all competitions and scoring once but making just two substitute appearances in the league.

City and Guardiola are said to value McAtee highly, but the player wants to secure more minutes ahead of the European Under-21 Championship. Premier League clubs such as West Ham, Brentford, Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace are reportedly interested, along with Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen, Bologna, and Fiorentina.

With 18 months left on his contract, January or next summer may be City’s last opportunity to earn a significant transfer fee for their academy product.