Birmingham City have confirmed that highly-rated youngster Aurelien Guernier has completed a move to Italian powerhouse AC Milan, bringing an end to his long association with the club before making a senior appearance.
The 18-year-old winger, who has been with Birmingham since the Under-7 level, was regarded as one of the academy’s brightest prospects. Despite efforts by the Blues to secure his future with a new contract, Guernier opted to join AC Milan. Chelsea and RC Strasbourg had also reportedly shown interest in the dual England-France youth international.
Guernier featured 25 times for Birmingham’s Under-18 and Under-21 sides during the 2025/26 season, contributing three goals and three assists. He was also included on the first-team bench for Birmingham’s 1-0 win over Queens Park Rangers in March.
His departure has sparked disappointment among supporters, particularly as it comes just a year after Birmingham’s academy was upgraded to Category One status. The club had hoped the improved academy structure would help attract and develop elite young talent.
Many fans see Guernier’s exit as a setback and have questioned the club’s pathway for academy players into the first team. Others believe it highlights the importance of Birmingham making the right appointment for their vacant director of football role following Craig Gardner’s departure.
With ambitions of challenging for the Championship play-offs next season, Birmingham will now be hoping to avoid further exits and keep their summer plans on track.
