Aymeric Laporte, a prominent center-back, has bid farewell to Manchester City and its loyal fans, embarking on a new chapter in his career. The seasoned footballer has inked a contract with Al-Nassr, marking his journey to Saudi Arabia after an impressive five-and-a-half seasons in the Premier League. During his tenure with Manchester City, Laporte contributed significantly to the team’s achievements, aiding in securing three consecutive league titles and the coveted UEFA Champions League victory in June.
Laporte’s football journey commenced at Athletic Club, an institution where players often spend their entire careers. However, in a surprising move back in January 2018, he ventured into a new territory by transferring to Manchester City in a momentous deal worth $71 million. The charismatic player swiftly endeared himself to the fans due to his robust defending skills and precise left-footed passes. His debut for the Spanish national team took place in 2021, and his tenure at City encompassed 120 Premier League appearances, contributing to a total of 13 trophies, including five league titles.
Expressing his sentiments through a tribute video posted on social media, Laporte stated, “This is now our history. Thank you and see you really soon.”
Laporte’s role in Pep Guardiola’s plans experienced a decline during the previous season. With only 12 league appearances and 24 across all competitions, he became a target for Saudi Arabia’s thriving football scene. The French defender has now reached an agreement with Al-Nassr, a club he will join alongside the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane, forming a formidable trio.
Manchester City greenlit Laporte’s departure after accepting a $30 million bid. The player himself embraced a three-year contract offer from Al-Nassr, the Saudi Pro League’s runners-up from the previous season. The official announcement of the transfer is expected shortly.