Ade - Arsenal needed the money

Togo ace denies ever asking for a transfer

Last updated: 24th July 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Ade - Arsenal needed the money

Adebayor: Arsenal needed the money

I found out that they needed the money and someone had to leave - that was me.

Adebayor on Arsenal exit
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Emmanuel Adebayor claims Arsenal sold him to Manchester City because they needed the money.

The Togo international completed his £25million move to City last weekend after signing a five-year contract.

Adebayor admits it was a difficult decision leaving Arsenal, but ultimately opted for a new challenge.

The 25-year-old has denied ever asking for a transfer, stating last summer when he was heavily linked with a move to AC Milan that he told manager Arsene Wenger that he wanted to stay.

Adebayor claims it was Wenger's decision to accept City's bid, although he has denied the relationship between the pair has now been fractured.

"When I came back from holiday, I landed on July 13 and my agent told me I was going to speak with the club," he told The Sun.

"When I did he told me they had come to an agreement with another club.

Difficult decision

"It was a difficult decision to make. But I went away and thought now is the time for another challenge. It took about a week to sort everything out.

"[Wenger] didn't really say why they wanted to sell me, but I found out that they needed the money and someone had to leave - that was me.

"Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger put me where I am today but he cannot stand up and say last summer I told him I wanted to leave.

"I told him I wanted to stay. I don't think our relationship is broken. I think they need the money and need to sell someone.

"They chose me and they got their money. I hope they spend it quite well and go forward. I sent them my regards.

"Now I have left Arsenal that is all behind me. It's finished. I was very happy there, they made me what I am today.

"But I am a Manchester City player and I have to focus on what I can do at this club."

While Adebayor thoroughly enjoyed his time at Arsenal he has conceded fans' reaction to his departure has left a sour taste in his mouth.

Disappointed

He is disappointed his 30-goal season seems to have been forgotten by the Gunners faithful.

Adebayor admits he has increased his earnings by moving clubs, although he insists the move is not all about the money.

"The way the fans behaved towards me was not nice at all," he continued.

"I can't understand why they were after me. I did my best for them and I was very happy there.

"I scored 30 goals in a season - it's not my fault that Milan, Barcelona or Real Madrid wanted to sign me.

"I know a lot of people will say 'He's gone for the money'. But I would like to see one Arsenal fan who worked somewhere for £10 and was offered work elsewhere for £30 to say they would refuse.

"Yes, they offered me a very fine contract and I have signed it. Now it's about what I can achieve as a footballer.

"I come from a very poor city and country. I have a lot of ambition. I've had a career, but I only ever think about going up."