Manchester City Football Club News

• Nickname:Sky Blues
• Founded:1887
• Manager:Roberto Mancini

• Ground:City of Manchester Stadium
• Capacity:48,000

Distin decides to quit City

22 May 2007 - 10:36:48

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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.