This week saw Manchester City begin pre-season training ahead of their chase for even more history next season. But given that the champions had a host of players involved in the Copa America and European Championships there are several of City’s key players enjoying an extended break. This allows a host of City’s young players to impress this pre-season. One of those is young Manchester City playmaker James McAtee. Can McAtee force his way into Pep Guardiola’s plans for next season? That is something to watch for this summer.
Over the past two seasons, McAtee has been developing his game at Sheffield United during consecutive loan spells at the club. The young Manchester City playmaker was a key contributor for the Blades over the past two seasons. During his time at Sheffield United, he made 75 appearances for the Blades. He scored 14 goals and added 8 assists as he became a key contributor for the Blades. Last season he spent the season on loan in the Premier League in what was a disappointing season for Sheffield United. While the Blades were relegated McAtee proved he can play at the highest level.
James McAtee will have the pre-season to prove he belongs at Manchester City. He will be a more mature player after spending last season playing in the Premier League. His new-found maturity coupled with his immense ability should see him well-prepared for City’s pre-season. He has the tools to make it at the world champions. Now it is about seizing the opportunity for James McAtee.
With players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva not featuring during City’s tour of the United States the opportunity is there for McAtee to shine. He has the game to play in midfield for Manchester City. Now he has to show he belongs and show that he be a key contributor during City’s friendlies against Celtic, AC Milan, Barcelona and Chelsea. If he can he could play his way into Pep Guardiola’s squad for next season.
James McAtee has always appeared destined to make it at Manchester City. Now there is a clear opportunity for him to stake his claim for a spot in Pep Guardiola’s squad. He may never get a bigger opportunity than the one that he has been presented with this summer. It is now up to the young Manchester City playmaker to seize it. It’s just one of many storylines to watch for during City’s pre-season tour of the United States.
