By
SABC Sport
5th August 2026
The teenage winger earned a move from English League One side Leicester City for a reported ã10million plus a further ã2.5million in potential add-ons.
Manga has admitted to BBC Sport that the Gunners were interested in his services, and he was close to joining the 2025/26 Premier League champions this transfer window.
"(Arsenal's interest) was very strong because it was very close to me going there, very close," said the 17-year-old.
âThe main decision was probably the pathway and the club itself. Theyâve been so successful that it was a no-brainer when City call. Itâs every childâs dream to win trophies and be at the top with the best.
"Once I get the opportunity, I just need to show myself and once I do that, everything will take care of itself. I feel like, to me personally, I see myself at City more. I see myself in blue."
The England youth international made his debut for the Cityzens in their 3-1 pre-season friendly victory over K-League XI in Seoul, South Korea on Wednesday.
