On August 24, 2023, Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr finalized the acquisition of Aymeric Laporte, a defender formerly with Manchester City.
Al Nassr executed a transfer deal amounting to 27.5 million euros with Manchester City to secure the services of Aymeric Laporte. This signing marks the latest addition of a prominent player from a major European club to Al Nassr's roster this summer.
The agreement entails a three-year contract between Laporte and the Saudi team, binding him to the Middle Eastern club until June 30, 2026. It's worth noting that back in January 2018, Athletic Bilbao had transferred the then-29-year-old player to Manchester City for a club-record fee of £57 million.
During his tenure with City, spanning over five years, Laporte played a pivotal role in securing 12 significant titles. However, his involvement was curtailed to just 24 games in the previous season, during which City accomplished a historic treble by winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League.
Despite having played 180 matches for City and netting 12 goals, Laporte's influence at the club diminished notably, especially in the past season. Manager Pep Guardiola favored defenders Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake over him, and the recent arrival of Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol for £77 million further limited Laporte's chances of consistent playtime.
Consequently, seizing the opportunity to relocate to the lucrative Saudi Pro League this summer, the Spanish-born French defender, Aymeric Laporte, embraced the decision wholeheartedly. In reflection of his time at Manchester City, Laporte remarked, "It has been an unforgettable five-and-a-half years. The journey has been filled with cherished memories that will remain close to my heart forever."
He continued, "From triumphs to challenges, victories to injuries, each moment has contributed to shaping the person I am today. It was an honor and a pleasure to wear these colors, and I hope my legacy is a positive one. I'll forever be a City supporter and eagerly anticipate reuniting with you all."