Pep Guardiola Delivers Blow to Leicester City’s Transfer Hopes with ‘Love to Have Him’ Comment

Before the transfer window even opened and while Leicester City were still savoring their promotion season, rumors began linking the Championship winners with James McAtee.

With Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall having departed the King Power Stadium and Leicester in need of attacking midfield reinforcements, the connection with the 21-year-old seems logical, despite McAtee’s former Manchester City coach Enzo Maresca now being at Chelsea.

McAtee, originally from Salford, has spent much of his senior career on loan. He had two spells at Sheffield United, although his latest stint ended in disappointment as the Blades were relegated after their promotion.

Given the depth of Manchester City’s squad, there was early speculation about McAtee’s potential permanent departure, with Maresca’s interest being a factor. However, Pep Guardiola, McAtee’s former manager, has also expressed admiration for the young midfielder.

Guardiola spoke highly of McAtee on the club’s X account, stating: “We have a high opinion of him. I would love to have him with us next season. He can play in tight spaces and has improved physically. Playing for a team fighting relegation has given him something special.”

McAtee has made 75 league appearances over two seasons with Sheffield United and is expected to add to his three league appearances for City.

His versatility allows him to play in various positions, including wide right, central midfield, attacking midfield, or even as a second striker.