OGC Nice have sealed an exciting loan deal for Manchester City defender Juma Bah, marking a high point in the Sierra Leonean’s accelerating development.
Pep Guardiola’s Next Prospect: Manchester City Send Juma Bah to Nice
Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, that a verbal agreement is in place for Bah to spend the 2025/26 season in Ligue 1 on the sunny Cote d’Azur.
At just 19, Bah has already turned heads across Europe. After departing Real Valladolid for City in January, he impressed during a half-season loan at RC Lens—featuring in 10 Ligue 1 matches, helping secure four clean sheets, and demonstrating defensive maturity beyond his years.
With Manchester City’s defensive ranks now bursting—bolstered by the signings of Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis—Bah’s pathway into the first team remains blocked.
A strategic move to Nice offers a competitive environment, and possibly continental action if the club navigates the Champions League qualification rounds.
Bah reportedly chose Nice over Lyon, attracted by their Champions League ambitions and the opportunity for consistent first-team football.
Lyon’s recent drop to Ligue 2 and financial concerns are thought to have played a part in tipping the balance.
This loan signifies a significant recognition of Bah’s talent—and the trust Nice place in him.
Support will be crucial as he adjusts to a new club environment, but his performances at Lens, including commanding displays against Marseille earlier this year, revealed a calming presence and impressive aerial ability.
For Manchester City, it’s a smart move: Bah will hone his craft in a robust European setting, with City able to monitor his progress closely. By the time 2026 arrives, he could be primed for a shot at the Etihad first team.
