Aït-Nouri Aims to follow footsteps of Mahrez at City

New Manchester City signing Rayan Aït-Nouri says he is determined to follow the path of fellow Algerian international Riyad Mahrez, a club legend who made a huge impact during his time at the Etihad.

Mahrez enjoyed a highly successful five-year stint at City, making 236 appearances and scoring 78 goals—averaging nearly one goal every three games. During that time, he also secured 11 major trophies and left a lasting impression at the club.

Aït-Nouri, who joined from Wolves, revealed that he had spoken with Mahrez—his national team captain—before making the move to City.

“I talked to Riyad—we’re teammates with the national team—and also with Matheus [Nunes], who I knew from Wolves,” Aït-Nouri shared. “Riyad spoke to me about life in Manchester and told me to give everything for this club, one of the best in the world. I want to follow in his footsteps.”

The young defender is also excited about the opportunity to play in the Champions League with his new team.

Despite being born near Paris, Aït-Nouri chose to represent Algeria internationally and has earned 17 caps since 2023. He says playing for the national team has broadened his experience and made him proud.

“It’s a different kind of challenge, but the national team has helped me grow a lot,” he explained. “Algerian football has its own style, and I’m honoured to represent my country. The support I get from fans on social media means a lot—I’m proud to wear this shirt.“