The powerful midfielder, regarded as one of the most complete players in the Premier League and Europe, says he wants to finish his playing days as a City player – but not before he has added many more winner’s medals to his collection
“I would love to end my career here,” said Yaya. “Nobody knows what the next step is in football and I believe that if you stop dreaming, you should stop playing football, but this is where I want to be.
“When I first arrived at City, every time I went to sleep I would dream about us winning something and about us being the best team in whatever competition we take part in.
“I believe I have to work harder all the time to improve and stay at the top level with this club. I will give my all every time I play and I will never forget how the fans have treated me here so nothing would give me greater pleasure than to finish my career as a Manchester City player.”
Yaya, who injured his knee in the derby defeat to United last weekend, will take his place in the Blues’ midfield at St James’ Park – scene of his two-goal heroics in the title run-in last season.
Yaya believes that was the first of many championship triumphs and he is determined to help City achieve more success at home and in Europe in the coming years.
“We want to make history and that was part of my plan when I first signed – to make history – and we’ve made a start but there is so many more chapters to be written,” said the Ivorian.
“I’m really enjoying my football here and I’m playing in front of the most amazing fans I’ve ever come across.
“Ending my playing career at City would be unbelievable, but I know it won’t be easy because we want to win everything and the Club is always looking to improve.
“There is no other place I would rather finish with and I want to continue winning titles and trophies with City. I believe we are just at the beginning of our journey.”
