Just signed for City and dedicates his first words to a Madrid player
🇩🇿 Aït-Nouri Joins Man City — But Pays Tribute to a Real Madrid Legend
Manchester City’s latest signing, Rayan Aït-Nouri, may be gearing up for life under Pep Guardiola, but his heart clearly lies elsewhere — at least when it comes to childhood idols.
Just minutes after confirming his move to the Premier League champions, the Algerian left-back was asked about his footballing inspiration. His answer was swift, sincere, and striking:
“My football idol? When I was a kid, it was Marcelo.”
🏆 Marcelo’s Legacy Still Shines Bright
Aït-Nouri’s admiration for Marcelo — the legendary Real Madrid full-back who played 546 matches and lifted a record number of titles with Los Blancos — is yet another testament to the Brazilian’s enduring influence.
With his flair, creativity, and attacking instincts, Marcelo redefined the modern left-back role. That legacy is now inspiring a new generation — and Aït-Nouri is one of them.
🤝 A Madridista in Manchester?
The comment might seem harmless, but in the world of elite football — and with a manager as meticulous as Guardiola — it’s a curious twist. City and Real Madrid have developed a fierce rivalry in recent Champions League campaigns, and this little “Madridismo” moment from their newest player certainly won’t go unnoticed.
While Aït-Nouri now has the task of cementing his place at the Etihad, his public affection for Real Madrid could hint at a dream move in the future. After all, many players have started in Manchester and ended up in Madrid.
💥 An Unintended Blow for Guardiola?
After enduring one of City’s most underwhelming seasons under his watch, Guardiola is preparing for a critical summer — starting with the FIFA Club World Cup. In that context, the last thing he expected was for his newest signing to sing praises of one of Real Madrid’s biggest icons.
Though it may not affect team dynamics directly, the symbolism is strong. Even in defeat, Madrid’s influence echoes — through players, through fans, and now even in City’s own dressing room.
