In an interview with France Football, Yaya Touré has sensationally revealed that Manchester City prevented him from spending time with his dying brother who tragically passed away last week. 

"I confess that I am still very sad. I'm suffering because I feel I have done nothing useful for him the last few weeks," - Yaya said.

"At the end of the season, I wanted to stay for four or five days with my brother before I flew to prepare for the World Cup with Ivory Coast, except that City did not want to give me a few days.

(Touré insists Manchester City did not allow him to visit his brother)

"I went to celebrate the title championship in Abu Dhabi while my brother was in his sickbed. By fortune, Kolo was at his bedside. After that I blame myself for not insisting and for not leading them to respect me.

"However, club officials knew that I had been suffering for a few months seeing the health of my brother decline. This is the reason I had several injuries at the end of the season, because my head had taken control of my body. These last four months have probably been the hardest in my life.

"I have had sporting success, except that when you get home and you find yourself facing the distress of someone you love, but you do not know how you can help, it's not good."

Touré accused Manchester City of disrespecting him last month when the club allegedly forgot to acknowlegde the 31-year-old's birthday, however, Touré's claims suggest the souring relationship between him and the club is more serious. 

Manchester City have been left disheartened by the Ivorian's quotes according to the Daily Mail and have insisted that the African Footballer of the Year did not request compassionate leave to spend time with his brother.

(Manchester City have refuted claims that the midfielder requested compassionate leave)

The Mail understand that City have been pro-active behind the scenes in supporting the midfielder and would have granted Yaya Touré compassionate leave without hesitation if it was requested.

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Adam  Bailey
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