City reshapes squad after McAtee exit

Manchester City completes the sale of James McAtee to Nottingham Forest for £30m as it reloads the squad.

City reshapes squad after McAtee exit valued at £30m

Manchester City have completed the sale of James McAtee to Nottingham Forest for £30m, the latest exit as the club reshapes its squad this summer.
City have added several players this window, including Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri, James Trafford, Sverre Nypan and Marcus Bettinelli, aiming to strengthen options across multiple positions.
Departures could continue with Ederson and Savinho linked with moves, while Jack Grealish left on loan earlier in the week. If Ederson leaves, City are reportedly ready to pursue Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG. Kalvin Phillips and Stefan Ortega are also expected to depart before deadline day. With the window still open, the club signaled a willingness to back ambition with market moves.

City’s approach this window signals a shift toward depth and flexibility. Selling McAtee frees funds and creates room for senior players, while the signings suggest a plan to compete on multiple fronts this season. It also puts more weight on how the academy will fit into a squad with real top level needs.

At the same time the plan raises questions about budget discipline and long term sustainability. A Donnarumma signing would push the wage bill higher and change the goalkeeper dynamic. The way City navigates these moves will matter to fans, sponsors and rivals who are watching for clarity and consistency.

Highlights

The coming weeks will reveal how City balances ambition with sustainability.