Manchester City have confirmed the departure of Eliaquim Mangala to Valencia on a permanent deal. The 28-year-old defender will return to his former club on a free transfer.
Mangala joined the Citizens in a £32m deal in 2014. However, the Frenchman endured a torrid time at the Etihad, failing to cement a place in the starting XI. He was loaned out twice in his five-year-spell, to Valencia and Everton respectively.
Mangala last made an appearance for Manchester City in January 2018 before signing a contract extension until March 2020.
Following the confirmation of his departure, Mangala wrote a heartfelt goodbye to the Citizens through social media.
“These last years I have grown enormously as a player and a man,” he said.
“I hold a lot of fond memories from my time at City – notably all titles and the Champions League semi-final. A special thought to all great people I met.”
“I would like to thank my teammates with whom I have always maintained very good relations, thanks to the staff, coaches and all the staff’s members for their support on a daily basis.”
“Thanks to Manchester City for helping and supporting me this last year during my recovery and finally thanks to all the fans for your constant support even in the most difficult moments and all the best for this season.”
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