Manchester City paid 45 million euros to Porto eight years ago for the card of Eliaquim Mangala. The French centre-back played regularly for the Cityzens in the first two seasons, but then Pep Guardiola sat on the bench and his adventure on the island came to an end.
For the powerful player, the ordeal of loans began, while since last summer he has been without a team after closing the cooperation with Saint-Etienne. The 31-year-old has spoken about his relationship with Guardiola, whom he appreciates for his sincerity.
“Pep told me: ‘You are a very good player, but for my style of play, you are not the defender I am looking for.’ He spoke very frankly with me, I cannot be disappointed with him. After playing with him, my desire to become a coach in the future increased.
I want to find a club, I need to find it as soon as possible. Football is my great passion and I feel very motivated to give my best on the field. I miss going down to the field”, declared the central defender, who has worn the jersey of the French national team 13 times.