"Guardiola was killing Toure's career"

Former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue believes that leaving Manchester City was the best option for former international teammate Yaya Toure.

The Ivorian has left the Premier League champions as a free agent amid a flurry of insults, with a fellow countryman understanding his frustration

After eight years at the Etihad Stadium during which time he won three league titles and domestic cups victories, the four-time African footballer of the year has headed towards the exit door.

Toure has moved on at the end of his contract, with the 35-year-old having dropped into the free agent pool as he weighs up his options.

The strained relationship between Toure and Guardiola, first noticed during the pair time at Barcelona, failed to be rebuilt as the midfielder was at a point omitted from City's champions league roster.

And Eboue believes he understands the frustration of his countryman.

future, you must go.

"It was evident Pep Guardiola did not like my brother Yaya right from the Barcelona days.

"It is the best decision for Yaya to get away from Guardiola's territory because he was killing his career as a footballer.

"I think Yaya's last one year has been hell because he was not playing enough. For a professional footballer that is very terrible."

The Catalan has hit back at what he considers to be “lies”, but Eboue believes there were clearly issues between a high-profile player and manager and that a parting of ways is best for all concerned.

He added: "Sometimes it's not all about the money.

"When your relationship as a player is not good with the manager and it does not seem like it will improve, it is always better to move elsewhere.

"Yaya is a great player and leader and I think he still has some years to continue playing at the highest level.

"He is the kind of player who can turn things round and he always wants to win."