When Manchester City packed their bags for the Club World Cup, one notable name didn’t make the passenger list: McAtee. Yes, James McAtee — the academy gem who once rattled an FA Cup hat trick and had Pep Guardiola mumbling something vaguely affectionate in a post-match interview. Now? He’s trading beachside glory for windbreakers and drills with England’s U21s.
It’s not just a snub. It’s a neon sign flashing, “Free to a good home (preferably not in red).”
McAtee Missing Out Might Just Be United’s Gain
Let’s not pretend this is just about tactics or squad balance. McAtee’s omission feels a little like forgetting your anniversary — you may not have meant anything by it, but good luck explaining it. And guess who’s been watching from across town with binoculars and a notepad? Manchester United. Yes, the Red Devils are circling like bargain hunters on deadline day, and they might just see City’s oversight as their invitation.
Selling to your biggest rival? Riskier than Guardiola trying a back three in a Champions League semi.
McAtee: Bundesliga or Bust?
While Old Trafford is tempting, whispers suggest McAtee fancies a Bundesliga move. After all, he’s seen how Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho turned German soil into springboards. Germany loves their midfielders, and McAtee might love them right back — especially if they promise him game time, schnitzel, and the odd Europa League appearance.
Contracts, and the Curse of Academy Gold
City are facing the same old conundrum: extend his contract or cash in before the lad struts into free agency in 2026. And let’s not forget the ghosts of academy past — players like Morgan Rogers who flew the coop and started shining elsewhere.
McAtee could be the next one that got away… all because someone forgot to pack his boots for Saudi Arabia.
Final Whistle: McAtee might not have made the squad, but he’s made the headlines — and possibly, his mind.
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