Monday 8 August 2016 15:52, UK
Pablo Zabaleta says he is staying at Manchester City after being told he is part of Pep Guardiola's plans for the season.
City's long-serving full-back is inside the final year of his contract and told Sky Sports in April he was considering his future after losing his place to Bacary Sagna.
But assurances from new manager Guardiola have left Zabaleta looking forward to a ninth season in the Premier League.
"There was a lot of speculation," said the Argentine, who missed this summer's Copa America after surgery on an ankle. "I don't know how many times I was away to Italy. It was incredible. Every day there was a new club.
"I've always been away from that because I knew from the first day it was my decision [to stay]. I had been told by the new manager that I was part of this squad for this season, so I am more than pleased for this because City was my priority.
"I know I only have one year left on my contract, so that creates a lot of speculation about my future but I didn't decide anything before I came back for pre-season to meet the manager and hear from him what was my situation.
"I am so happy to be part of Manchester City for this season."
Zabaleta joined City from Espanyol in 2008 and made his 300th appearance against Stoke in April.
