£30m Forest Star Rejected Enzo Maresca's Leicester Move
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca confirmed on November 6, 2026, that he tried to sign midfielder James McAtee during his managerial tenure at Leicester City. The recruitment effort failed when the player chose a second loan spell at Sheffield United before ultimately securing a £30 million permanent move to Nottingham Forest in 2025.
Maresca Tracks McAtee Development Ahead of City Ground Fixture
The revelation details Maresca’s assessment of the academy graduate, whom he previously managed in Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad. McAtee’s structural role at Nottingham Forest under manager Oliver Glasner has expanded into a deeper midfield position within a five-man defensive system, altering his central responsibilities since departing the Etihad Stadium.
Enzo Maresca
coachManchester City head to the City Ground following a 3-1 midweek victory against RB Leipzig in European competition. The performance offers momentum as the squad attempts to climb back up the table after consecutive Premier League losses against Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion.
“He’s improving a lot! I think, James, we spent one season together here with the EDS, then I tried to bring him with me at Leicester, but he preferred to stay with Sheffield. And, again, I’m not surprised because I know how good he is.”
City Xtra reported the manager’s pre-match comments.
