Nottingham Forest have confirmed James McAtee is not for sale, shutting down Manchester City's pursuit of the 24-year-old midfielder. McAtee's current deal at the City Ground runs until the summer of 2030, and the club are adamant he will not be leaving.

This stance comes as Forest fight for Premier League survival, sitting 19th in the table with just six points from nine games. Their recent form of one draw and four defeats in the last five matches, including a 2-0 loss at Brentford, has heightened the importance of retaining key players. McAtee is seen as a central figure in that battle, described as a key man with his peak years ahead of him. The team's record of one win, three draws and five losses this season has left them with a goal difference of minus six, having scored just six times while conceding twelve.

Performance concerns

Despite his importance, McAtee's output this season has been a concern. He has featured in nine matches across all competitions but has yet to register a goal or an assist. The talented playmaker, who can operate as a box-to-box midfielder, an attacking midfielder, or on the right wing, is known for his dribbling, powerful long-range shooting, and creative vision. Adding goals and assists is the next step required for the player, who knows Manchester City well from his time in their academy system.

Key context

Forest's precarious position, 18 points behind league leaders Arsenal, makes every point and every player vital. The immediate focus shifts to a daunting home fixture against Manchester City this Saturday. Pep Guardiola's side arrive at the City Ground sitting second in the Premier League, presenting a formidable challenge for Steve Cooper's team. This match follows a difficult run of results, with the 2-0 defeat at Brentford preceded by a 1-1 draw at Ipswich, where Neco Williams scored, and losses to Arsenal, Crystal Palace, and Coventry.

While City view McAtee as a player who could add quality and depth to their squad without needing an adjustment period, Forest's refusal to sell is clear. The club's immediate priority is securing Premier League status, not facilitating a major sale to a direct rival. Forest host Manchester City at the City Ground on November 7th.

More detail at sports.yahoo.com