Want-away Bristol City midfielder set to depart as French side pursue transfer

Han-Noah Massengo's time at Bristol City is nearing its end amid reports of a move back to his native France with top tier club Auxerre.

Massengo has been used on a sparingly basis by Nigel Pearson this season, influenced by the French midfielder's decision not to renew his contract at Ashton Gate. He was offered a new deal in January 2022, but talks remained at a stalemate between club and representatives, and Pearson later took the approach to reward those who are committed to the club in the long term. Despite his lack of pitch time, Massengo’s manager has spoken highly of him, and has been happy to call upon him when needed.

The 21-year-old has made 12 appearances for City this season, and played several games at the start of the campaign, but has not played a senior game for them since October. He has been demoted to the Under-21’s, and was substituted at half-time last week in the 1-1 draw against Newcastle United.

The well-known French paper L'Equipe report that Massengo will join on a loan deal until the end of the season, and that Auxerre will cover his wages. If Auxerre can cover his wages in full, it could free up more resources for the club to spend in the remaining few hours of the January transfer window.

Massengo is joining Auxerre in the midst of a relegation battle, and joins with more experience in the Championship, than in Ligue One. He made three league appearances in the top-flight for Monaco, and 23 for their reserve team, which plays in the National B, the which is the fourth level of French football. Massengo’s debut for Auxerre could come against his former club Monaco, with the two sides set to meet on Wednesday evening.

As for his career at Bristol City, Massengo made 110 appearances, including 99 matches in the Championship, and created three goals for his teammates, but failed to net a goal in the colours of Bristol City. His last involvement for the seniors was during a 3-0 defeat to Birmingham City in October.