Despite a relatively slow start to the season, Yaya Touré retains the full support of Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini. Speaking ahead of their Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow, Pellegrini strongly defended the Ivorian midfielder:
“I don’t agree, Yaya is not having a bad season. Maybe compared to last season, he is a little less brilliant, but he remains a very important player for our team.”
Though Touré has managed just three goals in all competitions so far, Pellegrini highlighted:
His crucial performance against Aston Villa.
The lingering effects of a difficult summer (possibly referring to the death of his brother and off-field issues).
His belief that Touré is progressively returning to form.
Pellegrini also addressed tactical concerns, saying that while Touré can play deeper, he will continue to be used in the same advanced role that brought him such success the previous season.
In short: no panic at City—Touré remains central to their plans as he works his way back to peak form.
