Manchester City Chairman Highlights 17‑Year‑Old Ryan McAidoo

Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has identified 17‑year‑old forward Ryan McAidoo as the academy player generating the most excitement. Al Mubarak made the comment in a short‑form video released by the club. Al Mubarak also promised a “smile” for fans in the upcoming summer transfer window. He stressed that the club’s aim for the 2026/27 season is simply “winning” after the departure of Pep Guardiola. Incoming manager Enzo Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana are shaping the post‑Guardiola blueprint, with elite youth development as a core pillar. The duo’s plan balances senior moves, including the future of winger Savinho, while reinforcing the homegrown core.

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McAidoo, a left‑footed winger who left Chelsea’s system for Manchester City in August 2024, made his senior debut in January 2026. He scored a solo goal in a 10‑1 FA Cup third‑round victory over Exeter City at the Etihad Stadium. Elite Development Squad head coach Ben Wilkinson highlighted McAidoo’s blistering pace, direct dribbling and versatility across the frontline. Wilkinson suggested that Maresca may include the teenager in the first‑team squad for the overseas pre‑season tour in Asia.