Boyata hints at permanent Twente switch

Dedryck Boyata says he is ready to leave Manchester City and admits he wanted to join FC Twente permanently this summer.

The Belgium international joined Steve McClaren's side on a season-long loan deal from the Premier League champions in August but, according to the defender, would have preferred a transfer. "In August I requested a transfer to FC Twente," Boyata told Voetbal International. "City had nine defenders in their squad. Only four of them can play and only two can sit on the bench. Even in the stands there were bigger names than me. "I wanted to fight for my place as I am not someone to run away from a challenge. However, sometimes you have to stop dreaming, be realistic and leave. "I would have preferred to have been sold to Twente and made a fresh start. Manchester City didn't want to go that far. I suppose they still believe in me."