Clichy: I rejected Liverpool and Rome

Posted on | Saturday, July 9, 2011 | No Comments

Gael Clichy has admitted that he has rejected interest from Liverpool and Rome for a trip to Manchester City.

French became the first summer signing for the city to complete the changeover £ 7 million Eastlands Arsenal last week.

Cypriots as it passes through San, Liverpool are believed to have been close to securing the services of 25 years.

But the city has managed to capture the movement and to ensure Clichy join the ranks of Roberto Mancini.

On the left back to the talks revealed Liverpool had come a long way, but was influenced by the possibility to play Champions League football with the city.

"In Liverpool, the contacts have been serious. Damien Comolli I was the sports director on the phone, I knew a long time," he told L'Equipe.

"There was also interest from Roma, with a major project, and an attractive offer, but I wanted to stay in the Premier League.

"I love football here and mentality. And the city gave me the opportunity to play in the Champions League.

"He would not have gained the same amount of Liverpool. I am a defender, not to score 30 goals a season. Salaries defenders do not evolve much, although there are some exceptions to the [Rio] Ferdinand and [John] Terry.

"I feel that people think that money was a deciding factor. This is not the case. Manchester City is a great club with a great team. It is an ambitious club that wants to shine in all competitions."

Clichy was part of the "Invincibles side that went unbeaten for the entire period, Arsene Wenger, but have not won anything since he won the 2005 FA Cup final.