Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has stood firm on his decision to replace Joe Hart, admitting it was ‘impossible’ to keep happy those demanding the keeper stays at Manchester City.
Although Guardiola gave Hart his first start of the season against Steaua Bucharest, with Claudio Bravo on the brink of a £17 million move from Barcelona this represented a farewell for the England keeper.
Joe6 Hart been described by his new manager as a “legend” tonight – but despite hearty support for the ‘keeper from City fans, the Spaniard insists he will make decisions over personnel.
“I know he is a legend for this club. I know part of what the club has become – one of the reasons is Joe. They won the Premier League, the cup. He helped to make this team one step above. I am so happy how the people treat him and love him.
“But I am here to take decisions. I make a lot of mistakes – my decisions as a coach are sometimes good, sometimes bad, but I take decisions. I try to be honest with myself. I was honest with Joe, the club and all the players in the squad. The people must follow me.”
City’s fans chanted for Hart not to be sold, and declared him the club’s number one despite the signing of his replacement being a formality. Bravo was in attendance at the Etihad for the 1-0 second leg win.
