McAtee- and City - face a dilemma over his next step

THIS summer is highlighting a familiar conundrum for City academy players.

- JOE BRAY

When they have progressed through the club’s system and have outgrown the Elite Development Squad, there is almost a brick wall between the under-21s and the first team. 

Only a few have jumped over that wall, and they show how good a player has to be to cement themselves in Pep Guardiola’s plans – namely Phil Foden and Rico Lewis.

Others have found the step up harder, such as Cole Palmer, deciding that a loan exit is a better option for getting valuable first-team experience.

Or some decide that a permanent exit is a more sensible move, with Shea Charles the latest Under-21 regular to leave for big money.