A number of leading players at Manchester City would have pushed for a move elsewhere had the club’s two-year ban from European competition been upheld, claims Sylvain Distin.
The Blues were left sweating on their involvement in continental action after being stung by UEFA-imposed sanctions.
Amid the uncertainty regarding future direction at the Etihad Stadium, a number of high-profile figures on and off the field saw fresh starts mooted elsewhere.
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Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and Pep Guardiola were all linked with switches away from Manchester, with personal ambition expected to see their heads to be turned.