Bristol City have secured the long-term services of George Tanner, with the full-back signing a new contract that will keep him at Ashton Gate until the summer of 2028.
The 25-year-old, valued at £2.5m by Transfermarkt, has made 124 appearances for the Robins since his arrival from Carlisle United in 2021, scoring three goals and establishing himself as a consistent performer on the right side of defence. His extension follows hot on the heels of a similar deal for fellow defender Cameron Pring, who also signed a new three-year contract this week.
‘We Weren’t So Competitive’
Tanner played a vital role in City’s 2024/25 campaign, featuring 36 times across all competitions and starting both legs of their Championship play-off semi-final against Sheffield United. His versatility, tenacity and composure at the back have made him a firm favourite with supporters and a key component of Liam Manning’s plans.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Tanner said:
“A few years ago, we weren’t so competitive. Since the gaffer has come in, we’ve improved so much as a team. To make the play-offs has been massive for the club and it was great to see the reaction from the fans. I think it’s really brought the club together, and that relationship with the fans has been amazing.”
From Old Trafford to Ashton Gate
Tanner’s journey to Championship prominence has been far from straightforward. He began his career in Manchester United’s youth ranks as a forward before being converted to a full-back, making over 50 youth appearances for the Red Devils. He had loan spells at Morecambe and Salford City before being released in 2020.
A permanent move to Carlisle United followed, where he impressed over 42 appearances and scored three goals in League Two. That form earned him a switch to Bristol City, and he has since grown into one of the Championship’s more reliable full-backs.
His continued development has been a testament to his adaptability and work ethic—traits that have made him a mainstay under successive managers in BS3.
Writer’s View
George Tanner’s new contract is a smart piece of business for Bristol City. At 25, he’s entering his prime and offers both consistency and Championship experience. His story—from being released by Manchester United to becoming a regular at Ashton Gate—embodies the kind of progression clubs outside the Premier League hope to nurture.
With the Robins now pushing for a top-six finish and developing a strong core of young, committed players, retaining Tanner sends the right message: this is a club on the up.
