Pep Guardiola wants Yaya Touré back in Manchester City squad

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has stated in his pre-match press conference that he wants Yaya Touré to be restored to the first team:

The only thing keeping the midfield veteran out of the squad is his agent, Dimitri Seluk, who is constantly slagging off City and Guardiola. If Touré has not told his agent to keep his mouth shut, then he is backing his statements and does not deserve to play for the club.

Another big question among the fans will be whether or not Yaya has the legs to play in a Sky Blue shirt again. He has been slow and lethargic over the past couple of years, and seems unfit for Guardiola’s style. He would slow down play in the midfield, which damages the likelihood of Pep’s system being successful. The 33-year-old would be best suited for a late substitute role. His passing range and long shooting abilities could be helpful for 15 to 30minutes a match, but his age makes it difficult to play as a starter.

Yaya is a club legend, but needs to keep his agent under control if he wants to retain that status. Seluk is tarnishing his reputation at City and causing him to watch games from the stands. Fans would welcome him back with open arms if he's willing to play as a sub, but his days at the Etihad look to be numbered.