Manchester City midfielder Charlie Gray has joined Wigan Athletic on loan for the remainder of the season. The 20-year-old's departure was reported to be close to completion on Thursday morning, after he missed the Under-21s' victory over Mansfield Town in the EFL Trophy on Wednesday night. Gray was in the stands at Wigan on Tuesday night as they faced Aston Villa Under-21s.
Senior debut and EDS recognition
Gray made his senior debut for City in December as the Blues beat Brentford 2-0 in the Carabao Cup. During the 2024/25 campaign, he was named the EDS Players' Player of the Season.
Speaking to Wigan's website after the deal was completed, Gray said: "I'm really happy to be here and excited to be on my first loan and come to such a big club like Wigan with such an experienced head coach. The playing style suits how I like to play, so I'm really excited."
First loan move and men's football
Gray added: "I think it's really important when you get to the age that I am now to get out and get some men's football under your belt. It's a completely different game to what U21s football is, and I can't wait to get started."
Confirming his exit on the City website, a statement from the Blues read: "Gray shone again at EDS level last term, with his performances drawing the attention of first team coaches for that call-up to the senior side. Everyone at City would like to wish Charlie the very best of luck this season."
Academy background and potential debut
Gray joined City as an Under-nine and has won the FA Youth Cup and the Premier League 2 title during his time in the academy. The midfielder will link up with his former City teammate Finley Burns at Wigan. The defender joined the Latics for £200,000 earlier this month.
It is understood City are likely to sanction several more academy moves in the final weeks of the transfer window. A handful of youngsters have been earmarked for loans away from the Etihad to continue their development. Gray's debut for the Latics could come on Saturday when they host Leyton Orient.
