Rayan Aït-Nouri’s situation at Manchester City is becoming increasingly concerning, with the Algerian international having played just 123 minutes this season and yet to make a single Premier League appearance.

When asked about the player’s situation, Enzo Maresca attributed his absence to competition for playing time, even at the risk of reigniting questions about the player’s role on the team.

The coach had previously explained that, in his view, Aït-Nouri was not a traditional fullback, but rather an offensive-minded player capable of playing further up the field.

This time, he highlighted the performances of Josko Gvardiol and Nico O’Reilly at left back to explain the Algerian’s situation.

“At his position, we have Josko Gvardiol, who is fantastic. We have Nico O’Reilly, who, when he’s in form, is fantastic. It’s the same position, so it’s just competition between them,” explained the Italian coach.

Despite his limited playing time, Aït-Nouri has already recorded three assists. His future at Manchester City could thus become a major topic during the next transfer window, with Manchester United and Juventus cited as among the clubs likely to be interested in him.