Riyad Mahrez Influences Man City Transfer

Riyad Mahrez has influenced Manchester City's transfer of Ryan Ait-Nouri, with the Algerian winger's advice helping to seal the £36million deal.

Ait-Nouri became Manchester City's first signing of the January transfer window, completing a move from Wolves.

The 24-year-old was signed in a deal worth up to £36million, addressing a long-standing issue at left-back for the recently dethroned champions.

Mahrez, who had a successful five-year stint at City, winning four Premier League titles, two FA Cups and the Champions League, moved to Saudi side Al-Ahli in 2023.

As international team-mates for Algeria, Ait-Nouri disclosed how influential Mahrez, his international captain, was in his decision to make the move.

"I speak with Riyad," said Ait-Nouri, "he told me about the city of Manchester and he told me to give everything for this club."

Ait-Nouri has now joined forces with former Wolves team-mate Matheus Nunes, who made the same move from Molineux to the Etihad.

The player believes that under Pep Guardiola's guidance and surrounded by world-class talents, he can elevate his game.

"I'm young, I can improve a lot," said Ait-Nouri, "I need to learn, to improve my football, for sure."

Ait-Nouri stated his aspirations at City, "to win a lot of trophies and to give everything for the team, for the badge, to play with my team-mates and be happy with the coach and the staff."

Manchester City announced Ait-Nouri's signing on June 9, 2025, with a welcome message on social media.

The transfer marks a significant signing for City, as they aim to strengthen their squad and compete for major honors.

Ait-Nouri's move to City is a testament to the club's appeal and **Mahrez's influence** on his international team-mates.

The Algerian winger's advice has clearly had an impact on Ait-Nouri's decision, and City fans will be eager to see the young left-back in action.

With **Mahrez's legacy** at City still fresh in the minds of fans, Ait-Nouri will be looking to make his own mark on the team.

The £36million signing is a significant investment for City, and they will be expecting big things from the young left-back.

As Ait-Nouri settles into his new surroundings, he will be looking to learn from his team-mates and improve his game.

With Guardiola's guidance, Ait-Nouri is confident that he can take his game to the next level and help City achieve success.

The future looks bright for Ait-Nouri and City, and fans will be eager to see how the young left-back performs in the upcoming season.