Distin decides to quit City
22 May 2007 - 10:36:48
Out of contract defender Sylvain Distin has decided to quit Manchester City after informing Blues officials that he is keen to seek a fresh challenge.
The 29-year-old former Newcastle United and Paris St Germain centre-half rejected the opportunity to become City's highest-ever paid player and has been linked with a free transfer switch to Portsmouth and Middlesbrough.
Distin, who made over 200 appearances for the Citizens, reportedly turned down a £40,000 per week new contract to stay at the City of Manchester Stadium.
"It has been an incredibly tough decision but, in the end, I just feel I want a fresh challenge," said the Frenchman, who signed for City five years ago in a £4million transfer from the Magpies.
"I have had five very enjoyable years at City and I wish the club all the best for the future but I want to play somewhere different.
"It is time for a change and it is time for me to move on."
The news of Distin's departure comes as a further blow for City officials as earlier in the day former England coach Sven Goran-Eriksson ruled himself out of the running to become the club's new manager.
Former Chelsea and current Parma boss Claudio Ranieri remains the frontrunner to replace the sacked Stuart Pearce.