Get the FREE Mirror Football newsletter by email with the day's key headlines and transfer news Sign up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Pep Guardiola made his peace with Yaya Toure by telling the midfielder that he needs his help to bring Barcelona to Manchester City.

Midfielder Toure has been one of City’s most important players since Guardiola allowed him to leave the Nou Camp for the Etihad in a £24million deal six years ago, winning two Premier League titles, the FA Cup and two Capital One Cups.

It seemed certain, though, that the 33-year-old would leave when it was confirmed his former Barca boss would become City manager.

But newly-appointed Guardiola has assured Toure he is a key element in his plans because he understands the football philosophy he first implemented in Catalonia.

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

A source close to Toure said: “The first thing Pep said to Yaya was that he will be a big player for him – on and off the pitch.

“Yaya is the only City player who has worked with Pep and he can help the rest of the squad understand the style of play that they will be asked to play.

“Yaya was happy to be told that he is part of the plan. He has never had a personal problem with Pep. In fact, when he was leaving Barcelona to join City, Pep told him that he wanted him to stay.”

(Image: Getty)

Toure looked like he was beginning to struggle with the physical demands of the Premier League last season.

But the source added: “Yaya has had a very good summer to relax and he now feels refreshed and ready to show that he is still a great player.

"Maybe there were times when he went to sleep last season, but he is awake again and wants to spend the last year of his contract with City.”