Jahmai Simpson-Pusey joins Bundesliga side on loan from Manchester City | OneFootball

Manchester City have repositioned Jahmai Simpson-Pusey for the remainder of the season following a difficult loan spell with Scottish Premier League giants Celtic.

The 20-year-old centre-back has endured a frustrating campaign to date, struggling for consistency and minutes north of the border, prompting City officials to reassess the best pathway for his short-term development.

As previously reported, a January recall was always viewed as a strong possibility for all parties, with the club keen to find an environment better suited to accelerating his progression.

Manchester City’s decision also aligns with a broader Academy and loan strategy that has already seen several young stars repositioned mid-season, as Etihad Stadium officials continue to prioritise competitive senior football for their most promising prospects.

Bundesliga clubs, in particular, have increasingly been viewed as ideal destinations due to the league’s emphasis on tactical education and opportunities for young players, and Germany has proven a productive development ground for City starlets in the past.

Now, in a statement issued by Manchester City on Tuesday morning, the club have confirmed that Jahmai Simpson-Pusey will spend the rest of the ongoing 2025/26 season on loan at Bundesliga side FC Koln.

Previous reporting from Fabrizio Romano also pointed towards the loan agreement including a buy-option, with City valuing the player at £10 million, while Koln would only be willing to offer around £5 million.

In the event of a permanent switch to the club at the end of the season, it has also been pointed out that Manchester City will have a buy back clause to protect themselves should Simpson-Pusey excel in future.

From City’s perspective, the structure of the deal reflects a desire to keep long-term control over the defender’s future while still allowing him to establish himself in a competitive European league.

The inclusion of a buy-back clause mirrors similar agreements used by the club in recent seasons when moving young talent abroad. For Simpson-Pusey, the coming months represent a crucial opportunity to reset his campaign, secure regular minutes, and demonstrate his readiness for senior football at a high level.

Strong performances in Germany could yet place him back on Manchester City’s radar ahead of future seasons, while also increasing his market value should Köln push to activate their option.

Much will now depend on how quickly the defender adapts to his new surroundings, but Manchester City will be monitoring his progress closely as part of their wider long-term planning at centre-back.