Yaya Toure is too Important – Pep Guardiola

Manchester City coach, Pep Guardiola has made peace with Yaya Toure, his former player at Barcelona FC telling the midfielder that he he has a key role in the project to bring Barcelona to Manchester City.

The 33 year old Ivorian was almost certain to be headed out of the club following Pep’s appointment at the start of the year, as the two fell out during their time at the Camp Nou before Yaya was sold to City for £24million in 2010.

Yaya Toure’s move to City proved to be an inspiring signing at the Etihad, as he’s since been one of the top performers in the league, leading the club to two Premier League titles, the FA Cup and two Capital One Cups.

The former Bayern Munich coach has assured that Yaya Toure has a vital role to play next season as he already understands the football philosophy he first adopted with the Catalans, Mirror writes.

“The first thing Pep said to Yaya was that he will be a big player for him – on and off the pitch,” a source said.

“Yaya is the only City player who has worked with Pep and he can help the rest of the squad understand the style of play that they will be asked to play.

“Yaya was happy to be told that he is part of the plan. He has never had a personal problem with Pep. In fact, when he was leaving Barcelona to join City, Pep told him that he wanted him to stay.”

While the towering midfielder may have looked off the pace last season, the source said he’s now relaxed and rearing to go.

“Maybe there were times when he went to sleep last season, but he is awake again and wants to spend the last year of his contract with City.”