Ivorian football star Yaya Toure has rejoined Greek Super League side Olympiakos, the star announced on Sunday, saying he rejected a lot of other offers in favour of the move.
The 35-year-old left Manchester City at the end of the 2017/18 season after eight years, having found playtime hard to come by under current manager Pep Guardiola.
“It is an honour to be back at Olympiacos! When I left in 2006 I said I would come back and I am delighted to keep my word. I had offers from lots of clubs across Europe, Asia and the USA. Ultimately, I made my decision based on the special relationship I have with this incredible club.
“I am as hungry for success now as I was when I first arrived here many years ago and I cannot wait to help the club win the trophies the great fans of Olympiacos deserve,” Yaya said.
Having left Machester City in May, the Ivorian accused Guardiola of being cruel to him, and not treating African footballers equally.
“I do not know why but I have the impression that he was jealous, he took me for a rival. As if I made him a little shade.
“He was cruel to me. I came to wonder if it was not because of my colour,” he said then.
Toure announced his retirement from international football in September 2016, having represented Cote d’Ivoire in six Africa Cup of Nations tournaments; in 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2015, helping them finish runner-up in 2006 and 2012, while captaining them to victory in 2015.
It is an honour to be back at @olympiacos_org ! 😊
When I left in 2006 I said I would come back and I am delighted to keep my word. 🙌🏾
FULL STATEMENT here: https://t.co/fBBwNFNLi7#YayaIsBack pic.twitter.com/hTG7DysRet
— Yaya Touré (@YayaToure) September 2, 2018
