McAtee is a Blade
Soccer Football - Champions League - Round of 16 Second Leg - Manchester City v Sporting CP - Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain - March 9, 2022 Manchester City's James Mcatee reacts REUTERS/Craig Brough
Sheffield United have today confirmed the signing of James McAtee on a season-long loan. McAtee, 19, becomes the 6th signing for Sheffield United, and the 2nd loan signing from Premier League champions Manchester City.
It was said that Pep Guardiola was reluctant to loan the exciting youngster out this season as he wanted to ease McAtee into senior football at City. However, McAtee has now made the loan switch to be with his fellow City teammate Tommy Doyle.
The 19 year-old attacking midfielder scored 18 goals in 23 games for Manchester City U23’s last season. He made 6 appearances off the bench for the senior team last season across all competitions, including the UEFA Champions League.
McAtee said in his first interview with the Blades:
“I’m looking forward to the challenge, I’ve been building up to a loan for a few years now and I think I’m ready.
“Paul (Heckingbottom) was a lovely guy to meet, he showed me around and made me feel welcome. He was telling me about how he sees me playing and that’s how I see it too. The way the Sheffield United play suits me and hopefully I can help with creative options. Manchester City are obviously happy with the club, they want me to get some game time and experience.” [Sheffield United]
The Blades now have a ton of creativity and flair in their team, and it is going to give Heckingbottom a big selection headache this season. Perhaps a change in formation is on the cards.
