Official: Pablo Zabaleta informs Manchester City that he is leaving

Pablo Zabaleta has informed Manchester City that he will leave after nine years, the club have officially announced.

An official club release reads:

“Pablo Zabaleta will leave City at the end of the season, bringing the curtain down on an incredible nine-year association with the Blues.

The 58-times capped Argentina international is out of contract in the summer and has informed the Club he will move to pastures new, but leave behind many happy memories.

Fans will have the opportunity to show their appreciation for one of the Club’s most loyal and loved servants of recent times against West Brom on Tuesday evening, which will be Pablo’s last home appearance.

Though there are a number of first-team player contracts currently under consideration, Pablo’s situation is the only one that has been fully finalised.

One of the most popular players of recent times, Pablo has been a firm crowd favourite with the City supporters who have resonated with his passion, heart and willingness to put his body on the line time and time again.

With 332 appearances made since his bargain £6.5m move from Espanyol, Zaba joined City the day before it was announced Sheikh Mansour was the Club’s new owner.”

Pablo Zabaleta will be missed by all City fans and remembered for his work rate, effort and commitment to the cause. He’ll forever be an honorary Mancunian and Manchester City legend…