![](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Bacary-Sagna.jpg\")
(Photo by Shaun Botterill\/Getty Images)\nSagna Explains His Decision<\/p>\n
Bacary Sagna has reflected on his departure from Arsenal in the summer of 2014, when he joined Manchester City as a free agent. The defender had spent seven years at the Emirates and was an integral part of Arsene Wenger\u2019s side during that period.<\/p>\n
Reports at the time suggested Arsenal were keen to retain his services, yet Sagna opted to move to City, where he was offered improved financial terms. Manchester City were rapidly establishing themselves as one of Europe\u2019s emerging powerhouses, pursuing a strategy focused on recruiting leading players from rival Premier League clubs.<\/p>\n
A Controversial Switch<\/p>\n
City signed several high-profile figures from Arsenal during that era, including Emmanuel Adebayor, a trend that did not sit well with supporters in north London. As a result, players who made the move often faced criticism from sections of the Arsenal fanbase.<\/p>\n
Sagna\u2019s decision was viewed by many as damaging to his standing at the Emirates. Equally, he did not become a particularly celebrated figure at the Etihad. Years later, however, he has provided insight into the personal and professional considerations behind his choice.<\/p>\n
(Photo by Shaun Botterill\/Getty Images)
\nSagna Explains His Decision<\/p>\n