James McAtee returned to Manchester City’s squad this summer after making a giant leap in his progression during a loan move with Sheffield United.
The experiences of being a first-team regular at a Championship club tested the youngster’s metal to begin with. But, he quickly buried concerns of being too lightweight after the World Cup break by producing several sensational performances. He ended the season with nine goals and three assists in 39 Championship appearances [Transfermarkt].
The 20-year-old has been enjoying his time with City during their pre-season tour, and he scored the opener in City’s 2-1 win against a strong Bayern Munich side earlier this week.
McAtee was asked by reporters if the plan is for him to stay with the squad this season, he told Manchester Evening News:
“I think that’s the plan so far but I’m not too sure. I’ll have to wait until we get back home.
“I’ve not really had talks with him (Pep). He’s been busy with a lot of things. They’ve been busy celebrating the triple, which I’m over the moon for them about. He just said to get your head down and work hard in pre-season.”
The promising midfielder has been linked with a return to Bramall Lane in hopes of recreating last campaign’s success. However, that now seems unlikely to transpire after Guardiola has rejected offers of £30m.
McAtee stated: “I’m grateful to Sheffield United for giving me my chance, but this is my childhood dream to play for Manchester City. That’s the goal. We’ll see.
“It’s obvious [how difficult it is]. They’ve got the best players in the world: Bernardo, De Bruyne. I just need to keep my head down and try my best.”
