James McAtee finally gets his chance to shine for Manchester City, impressing fans and earning a much-deserved cameo performance.
One of the most peculiar aspects of Manchester City's logic-defying season has been Pep Guardiola's use of James McAtee. Guardiola persuaded McAtee to stay with City in the summer rather than seek another loan move, and the academy graduate accepted he would have to settle for less playing time. Before his surprise introduction at Leicester, though, he had played just two minutes of Premier League football.
For all of City's injury problems, their stretched squad and overworked players, Guardiola was persistently overlooking someone raised in his style and surely useful from the bench more often than he has been called upon. Guardiola has put faith in his senior players to get themselves out of the run they got themselves into, so it was a surprise that McAtee was introduced just after the hour mark at Leicester. Was it a coincidence that this week have seen reports that there is interest from across Europe in McAtee's services in January? Probably. But this did mark a change in tactic with the homegrown forward. And he repaid the belated faith as he knocked the ball past his man to get out of a tight spot on the touchline just eight minutes after coming on. That allowed him to set up Kevin De Bruyne, who spread the ball to Savinho to cross for Erling Haaland to head in the second. There were the inevitable shouts of 'Haaland, Haaland' from the noisy away end but as play restarted it was McAtee's name being sung loudly from that corner. Fans have been desperate for him to be given a chance, and on this showing they may get to see more of him. It has taken a while, but McAtee's season should finally get going after this cameo - although Guardiola made clear to him late in the game that his decision to shoot (narrowly over) was the wrong one. It took the manager a few attempts to get McAtee's attention, but he insisted on making his point to keep the ball moving rather than risk a speculative effor
MANCHESTER CITY JAMES Mcatee PEP GUARDIOLA PREMIER LEAGUE FOOTBALL
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Leeds United May Rekindle Interest in Manchester City's James McAteeSpeculation grows that Leeds United could restart their pursuit of Manchester City's James McAtee in the upcoming January transfer window. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, currently struggling for playing time, could be allowed to leave City, who are considering a January sale. Multiple Premier League and Championship clubs, including Crystal Palace, Fulham, and West Ham United, are reportedly interested in McAtee, who has already demonstrated his skills in the Championship.
Read more »
McAtee's Manchester City Dream Fades as January Exit LoomsJames McAtee, despite expressing his desire to break into Manchester City's first team, has seen minimal playing time this season. He finds himself as an unused substitute more often than not, despite the club's injury struggles. As the January transfer window approaches, McAtee is reportedly considering his options and a move away from the Etihad Stadium.
Read more »
James McAtee's Manchester City FrustrationDespite stating his desire to play for Manchester City this season, James McAtee has been relegated to the bench with limited playing time. The young talent, who previously spent time on loan at Sheffield United, has only featured for a few minutes in the Premier League and is now considering a January transfer exit.
Read more »
James McAtee Makes Impact for Manchester CityJames McAtee finally gets his chance to shine for Manchester City after a long wait.
Read more »
Man City make James McAtee transfer 'decision' amid Premier League interestManchester City starlet James McAtee has been linked with Premier League rivals West Ham and Fulham
Read more »
Manchester City vs Leicester City Prediction: Can City End Their Winless Streak?Manchester City and Leicester City face off in a crucial Premier League clash where both teams are looking for a much-needed victory. City's recent form has been disappointing, while Leicester's struggles have seen them drop into the relegation zone.
Read more »