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3 months ago
19
James McAtee plans on using Phil Foden’s patience as inspiration to force a way into the Manchester City team after Pep Guardiola revealed he wants the youngster to stay.
The 21-year-old midfielder is with a youthful squad on City’s pre-season tour of the United States, producing an encouraging display during the 4-3 defeat by Celtic.
McAtee, not short of interest and who is being monitored by Chelsea, has spent the past two seasons on loan at Sheffield United in a pursuit of regular games but claims to be coming into this campaign with a different attitude.
‘If you look at Phil, Rico (Lewis), Oscar (Bobb), they’ve been patient and been rewarded,’ McAtee said.
‘My mindset is definitely different (this year). I’m going to see how this tour goes. Obviously it’s my dream to play for this club.
James McAtee (pictured) plans on using Phil Foden ’s patience as inspiration to force a way into the Manchester City team
Foden (pictured) rose through the City ranks and has gone on to win six Premier League titles under Pep Guardiola
Clubs around the top-flight have shown an interest in McAtee (left) but Guardiola (right) wants him to stay
‘I’m not really fussed about minutes. I just want to learn from the best manager, the best players and it’s not really about minutes. I’ve gone out and got my minutes, with the physicality of the men’s game.
‘Obviously I know the demands and quality in this team. If I wasn’t to get minutes it’s not something I’d be upset with but my aim is to prove myself and get into the team as much as I can. I need to earn that.’
Gary Neville labelled McAtee a ‘David Silva clone’ on his Premier League debut against Everton three years ago and City have high hopes for the academy graduate.
The England Under-21 international did admit that reacclimatising with Guardiola’s preferred style of play has taken some time after spells at Bramall Lane.
The 21-year-old (pictured) has spent the past two seasons on loan at Sheffield United in a pursuit of regular games
McAtee (left) produced an encouraging display during City's 4-3 pre-season defeat by Celtic
‘Football is evolving towards that style of play but the club I was at on loan – no disrespect – but it wasn’t their way of playing,’ he added. ‘It’s difficult to get back into the swing of things but it’s the way I like to play and suits my strengths so hopefully I can get going again.
‘The manager just says to go out and be yourself. He’s not asking much of me, he just wants me to express myself.
‘He’s the best manager in the world so any praise from him is amazing. It’s about getting my head down and prove him right.’
English (US)