Toure – I thought I was signing for United

Yaya Toure has revealed that he thought he was signing for Manchester United when he joined local rivals City in 2010, per the Manchester Evening News.

The Ivory Coast international left Barcelona six years ago after three seasons at the Nou Camp, but Toure has now suggested there was some confusion over his transfer away from Spain between him and his agent:

When I was at Barcelona and initially approached by Manchester City I thought it was Manchester United that wanted me. My agent had to tell me it was the team in the blue shirts.

The City midfielder also spoke of his admiration for the Reds, but also made it clear that he was aware of the fact he was signing for the Blues and that joining them was a challenge he relished:

At the time Manchester United were putting Manchester City in the shadows. It was unbelievable. Manchester United is a big club and I respect that club a lot. It was a big challenge but I came because I knew they were going to succeed and we would win trophies, compete with the big clubs and with Manchester United.

Talking about his move to City, Toure added:

This was the kind of club I wanted to have a story with and make history with. I made a good choice.

Since Toure signed for City he has won two Premier League titles – the same figure as United in the six years since his transfer. However, the Ivorian also has two League Cup triumphs and an FA Cup winners’ medal to his name from his time in England, with the Reds having failed to win any other competition since.

Toure isn’t in such great form for City now but, looking at some of his performances for the club in recent years, especially against United, the Reds might wish it was them who snapped up the Ivorian instead of their Manchester rivals.