Ivory Coast and Barcelona legend Yaya Toure has opened up on his decision to join Manchester City in 2010, turning down interest from Chelsea—despite heavy lobbying from his compatriot and close friend, Didier Drogba.
In a candid interview shared via CaughtOffside, Toure explained that while Drogba tried to convince him to move to Stamford Bridge, it was Manchester City’s clear vision and personal commitment that ultimately swayed him.
“Didier Drogba is like a big brother to me… he wanted me at Chelsea,” Toure said. “But Manchester City showed a stronger desire to sign me. They made me feel like a central figure in their plans.”
The four-time CAF Player of the Year noted that Chelsea’s approach was more passive, likely due to their already star-studded midfield at the time. In contrast, City made him the cornerstone of their rebuilding strategy, with then-executive Brian Marwood playing a key role in the negotiations.
Toure, who joined the Citizens from Barcelona for €24 million, reunited with his brother Kolo Toure at the Etihad and went on to become one of the Premier League’s all-time great midfielders, winning three Premier League titles and helping to establish City as a powerhouse in English football.
Now 41, the 2015 AFCON winner has transitioned into coaching and currently serves as assistant coach of Saudi Arabia’s national team.
