Pep Guardiola Blocks James McAtee Sale Amid Man City Injury Crisis
Manchester City are reportedly refusing to entertain West Ham’s interest in James McAtee as the club faces an ongoing injury crisis. Despite the 22-year-old’s limited game time this season, Pep Guardiola is determined to keep McAtee in the squad to ensure City’s depth as they chase a fifth consecutive Premier League title.
According to Football Insider, Guardiola has made it clear that selling McAtee during this critical phase would further weaken the team, especially with several key players sidelined. The club also reportedly holds McAtee in high regard, viewing him as a potential future star.
McAtee’s Role at City
So far this season, McAtee has made just six appearances, including three starts, one of which was in the Community Shield. While his playing time has been limited—his other starts came in the League Cup, where City are no longer competing—Guardiola recognizes that injuries may create more opportunities for the attacking midfielder to feature.
West Ham’s Pursuit of McAtee
West Ham have shown significant interest in McAtee, reportedly eyeing him as a replacement for Lucas Paquetá, who could leave in January. The Hammers are believed to have set aside £20 million to secure McAtee’s services, but that valuation falls short of City’s expectations.
Given Guardiola’s reluctance to sell and the mounting injury concerns, West Ham may need to explore alternative targets if they hope to address a potential midfield void.
City’s Mounting Injury List.
Manchester City’s squad is stretched thin, with ten players currently unavailable. Five of those injuries impact the midfield, further emphasizing the need for players like McAtee to step up. The sidelined players include:
- Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, and Oscar Bobb—all direct competitors to McAtee’s position.
- Defensive stalwarts like Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Nathan Aké.
- Midfield anchors Rodri and Matheus Nunes.
- Winger Jérémy Doku.
With these absences, Guardiola might rely on McAtee to play a more significant role in the coming weeks.
City’s Broader Transfer Plans
Amid the injury woes, City are also looking to strengthen their squad for the future. TEAMtalk has revealed that the club is considering re-signing former right-back Jeremie Frimpong as a long-term successor to Kyle Walker. City are also reportedly keeping tabs on Bournemouth defender Illia Zabarnyi, with Chelsea and Tottenham showing interest as well.
In addition, City remain confident about securing a new contract for Erling Haaland, reportedly offering the Norwegian a record-breaking £500,000-per-week deal.
What’s Next for McAtee?
As City manage their injury crisis and navigate a packed fixture schedule, McAtee’s presence in the squad becomes increasingly important. With Guardiola refusing to sanction a sale, the young midfielder may find himself with an elevated role in the team during this challenging period.
For West Ham, it seems unlikely they’ll pry McAtee away this January, but the story underscores the value City place on their emerging talent.
