'My opinion will matter' - James McAtee gives update on Man City plans at end of the season

Pep Guardiola had to apologise to James McAtee for leaving him out of a recent Manchester City squad, and has admitted this season has been a difficult one for the youngster.

McAtee returned from two years on loan at Sheffield United to fight for his first team place at City, impressing on pre-season in the USA but struggling to turn that into regular minutes in the Premier League. In fact, until December he had barely been used despite City's injury crisis.

Even then he is yet to start in the league and averages just 12 minutes per appearance off the bench. He has six goals in his total 21 appearances (six starts), including an FA Cup hat-trick against Salford City in round three.

Now, with players returning, McAtee's chances of breaking through are even more limited - although there could be a role for him at this summer's FIFA Club World Cup tournament in the USA. In theory, McAtee's lack of minutes could potentially work in his favour as he may be fitter and fresher than some teammates who have played all season.

But at the same time as the inaugural expanded FIFA tournament, McAtee is also eligible for the under-21 European Championships having helped England win the same tournament two years ago. That England tournament takes place in Slovakia from June 11-28, while the Club World Cup takes place for a month starting on June 13.

Asked about where he would prefer to play this summer, McAtee said a discussion is scheduled with City manager Guardiola to decide the best way forward for him.

"Maybe, maybe not? I’ve not made my mind up yet," he said. "It’s a great opportunity for both so it’s something I need to chat to City and Lee [Carsley] about. I’d love to go to both.

"I think I’ll get a say in it. But as I say, I