Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has responded to Raheem Sterling’s comments on his desire to leave Etihad.
The 26-year-old, who has been struggling for minutes this season, has recently stated that he could seek a move away from England if an opportunity arises.
Guardiola is surprised with Sterling’s comments, stating that neither he nor the club are aware of the Three Lions star’s plans.
The Premier League manager said (h/t Goal): “I didn’t know it. I didn’t think the club knew.
“Raheem is our player, hopefully, he will be an incredibly important player for us. I don’t know if he wants to play more. Riyad [Mahrez] doesn’t play and he doesn’t complain, Joao [Cancelo] too.
“I cannot assure them, I cannot assure how many minutes each one plays. Always they have to speak on the pitch. Not Raheem, all of them. They know they are going to play minutes, all of them are involved. What I want from Raheem and everyone is they have to be satisfied to be here and delighted to be here.”
Guardiola also offered an update on Ferran Torres, who sustained a fractured foot during international duty with Spain.
The former Barcelona boss stated that Torres would be out of action for at least three months.
Guardiola added: “Torres will be out two to three months. The injuries can happen here, at home, the national teams. It happens. I know the manager from Spain, he treats Ferran as best as possible, doesn’t want him to get injured. They try to take care, sometimes it happens.”
The Spanish forward’s absence could be a huge blow for the Sky Blues, as he has been impressive for both club and country. Sterling and Mahrez are expected to get more minutes in Torres’ absence.
