Why Reigan Heskey Left Manchester City to Join Bundesliga Following Sancho and Bellingham’s Path

Reigan Heskey’s Move from Manchester City to Germany

Reigan Heskey has decided to leave Manchester City for a new opportunity in the Bundesliga. The 18-year-old forward, son of former Liverpool and England striker Emile Heskey, chose this move to get more first-team football. Emile shared his thoughts with GOAL on why his son made this important career decision.

Following in the Footsteps of Sancho and Bellingham

The young forward has followed a path similar to Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham, who both left City’s academy for German clubs. Reigan, who has impressed at England’s U18 level, will now take on the challenge of the Bundesliga after spending time alongside his brother Jaden in City's youth setup.

Brothers in the Manchester City Academy

Both Reigan and his brother Jaden were highly regarded within City's academy. Jaden spent last season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday. Despite their potential, breaking into City's first team proved tough given the competition and limited chances for young players at Premier League giants.

Realizing this, Reigan saw the summer of 2026 as the right moment to seek opportunities abroad and test himself outside his comfort zone.

Joining FC Köln with a Promising Contract

Reigan's transfer to FC Köln could eventually be worth up to £8 million ($11 million) including add-ons. He had just one senior appearance for City, coming off the bench in a Carabao Cup match, but he aims to prove his talent in Germany's top flight.

Emile Heskey Explains the Move

“At 17 or 18, if you’re ready for first-team football and not getting it in England, you have to go somewhere with a proven track record. Germany shows that track record,” said Emile.“Our youth teams have fantastic players, but they aren’t given chances here like they are in Germany. We shouldn’t have to leave England to get opportunities, yet that's the reality. Players like Sancho and Bellingham took that path because chances at home are rare.”“English clubs buy young players from France and Germany at 20 or 21, but our own kids often miss key years playing only in under-21 leagues or limited cup games.”“My son Jaden is almost 21, and when I was 22 I moved to Liverpool after five seasons at Leicester. Many young players today miss out on important development time.”

Reigan’s Experience and Future Prospects

Last season, Reigan appeared twice in the EFL Trophy for City’s U21s and made a brief senior appearance in the Carabao Cup. He also caught attention at the 2025 U17 World Cup by scoring four goals. Moving to Germany offers him the chance to gain regular first-team minutes and grow as a player.

Upcoming Fixtures Mentioned

• Premier League: Manchester City vs AFC Bournemouth - 23 Aug 2026, 15:00
• DFB-Pokal: Wuerzburger Kickers vs FC Koeln - 24 Aug 2026, 18:00