Gueida Fofana has revealed that he almost joined Manchester City before completing a move to Lyon.
Lyon newcomer almost made Etihad Stadium switch
Gueida Fofana has revealed that he almost joined Manchester City before completing a move to Lyon.
The highly-rated midfielder made the switch to Stade Gerland just before the transfer deadline after catching the eye with Le Havre over the past couple of seasons.
He has also impressed at youth international level with France at various age groups and a number of leading clubs were monitoring the progress of a player who is regarded as a possible superstar of the future.
Fofana admits Man City were leading the chase for his signature and he would have been ready to accept such a challenge, but the prospect of playing more regularly for Lyon swayed his decision.
"I was keen to leave Le Havre in my mind. They gave me until the end of August to sort out my future," he told
France Football.
No hesitation
"At first, actually I was due to leave for Manchester City. It was the club that showed the most interest in me just after the Under-20 World Cup.
"There were also Spanish, English and French sides, but Manchester City was in with the best chance.
"Even if they have a lot of midfielders, I was keen to go there.
"Then, early last week, Lyon came. In my position, they have only Kim Kallstrom and Maxime Gonalons.
"It changed everything. Considering the prospect of having first-team opportunities at the highest level, I didn't hesitate."
