‘We earned a place among the greatest in the world’ – Sergio Aguero salutes Man City after 10 seasons of service

It’s been announced Sergio Aguero will leave Manchester City in the summer when his contract expires.

He joined City in the summer of 2011, scoring twice and creating an assist during his debut in a 4-0 win over Swansea City.

He scored a memorable dramatic late goal in 2012, in added time on the last matchday, to secure the first Premier League title for City. That moment is one that many commentators have called the most dramatic Premier League title win ever.

The striker has gone on to become the club’s record goalscorer, finding the back of the net 257 times in 384 appearances.

Aguero has struggled with injuries since having knee surgery in the close season, with a hamstring problem complicating his comeback and then he had to sit out a month after a Covid-19 infection in January.

That will have played a part in the decision not to offer him a new contract but the player is adamant he is far from finished.

“When a cycle comes to an end, many sensations arise,” he wrote on Twitter.

“A huge sense of satisfaction and pride remains in me for having played with Manchester City for a whole 10 seasons – unusual for a professional player in this day and age.

“Ten seasons with major achievements, throughout which I was able to become the top historic goalscorer and forging an indestructible bond with all those who love this club – people who will always be in my heart.

“I was to join during the reconstruction era of 2011, and with the guidance of the owners and the contribution of many players, we earned a place among the greatest in the world.

“The task to maintain this well-deserved privileged position will remain on others.

“As for myself, I will continue to give it my utmost for the rest of the season to win more titles and bring more joy to the fans.

“Then, a new stage with new challenges will begin and I am fully ready to face them with the same passion and professionalism that I have always dedicated to continue competing at the highest level.”

Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has revealed that plans are underway for an Aguero statue at the Etihad Stadium, where the forward will be immortalised along with his former teammates Vincent Kompany and David Silva.

City Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said:

“Sergio’s contribution to Manchester City over the last 10 years cannot be overstated. His legend will be indelibly etched into the memories of everyone who loves the Club and maybe even in those who simply love football.

“This is not yet the moment for farewell words and speeches. There is still much to achieve in the remainder of the time we have with Sergio, and we look forward to his contributions to the challenges which lay ahead.

“In the meantime, it gives me great pleasure to announce that we will be commissioning an artist to create a statue of Sergio to live at the Etihad Stadium alongside the ones under construction for Vincent and David. And we look forward to the opportunity to bid Sergio a fitting farewell at the end of the season.”