'Very good' - Guardiola hails 3 aspects of Man City signing's Club World Cup performance

Manchester City's Rayan Ait-Nouri (Credit: Imago)

i

Rayan Ait-Nouri in action for Manchester City against Al Ain (Credit: Imago)

'Very good' - Guardiola hails 3 aspects of Man City signing's Club World Cup performance

Seye Omidiora 14:21 - 23.06.2025

Pep Guardiola praised a new signing’s impact after Manchester City's 6-0 Club World Cup triumph over Al Ain.

Manchester City secured their passage to the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup with a dominant 6-0 victory over Al Ain

Manager Pep Guardiola particularly praised the impact of new signing Rayan Ait-Nouri following the comprehensive win.

Man City vs Al Ain

Ilkay Gundogan led the scoring with a brace, including a sublime chip, while young Argentine Claudio Echeverri marked his first start for City with a superb free-kick. 

Rayan Ait-Nouri
Manchester City's Rayan Ait-Nouri (Credit: Imago) Rayan Ait-Nouri in action for Manchester City against Al Ain (Credit: Imago)

Erling Haaland also found the net from the penalty spot, with substitutes Rayan Cherki and Oscar Bobb completing the impressive tally.

Guardiola highlighted Ait-Nouri's outstanding debut performance at left-back, noting his strong defensive work and intelligent forward runs. 

He also commended the Algerian's versatility, having played effectively in central midfield during the match. 

“Wow, he played very good because we had to defend a back four and then a back five, he had to arrive in the end,” said the Man City boss.

“At the end he played really good. It’s his first game but he’s played in the Premier League for many years.

“He can help us play in that important role, then he went holding midfield in the pockets, he moves really well in small spaces.

“He’s intelligent and clear to defend and take the ball and especially in the final third he’s so clever as well. “I was really pleased for the game he played.”

What’s next for Man City?

Man City take on Juventus in their final group game at the ongoing Club World Cup on June 26.