France’s Sagna leaves Arsenal to join Man City

Sagna's move from the Emirates Stadium was widely expected after he reportedly rejected a two-year contract extension. (Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP)

LONDON — France and Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna will join English Premier League champion Manchester City from next season.

Sagna’s contract at Arsenal expires at the end of June, and his move from the Emirates Stadium was widely expected after he reportedly rejected a two-year contract extension.

Sagna also posted a farewell message to Arsenal on social media before the transfer’s announcement.

Sagna will join City for the club’s preseason tour in the United States after the World Cup in Brazil, where he is with the France squad.

The 31-year-old right-back joined Arsenal seven years ago from French side Auxerre and played in 284 matches for the Gunners. But he did not win a single trophy in North London before lifting the FA Cup in his final appearance for the club last month in Wembley.

Sagna is expected to sign a deal estimated by British media at 140,000 pounds ($237,000) a week with City.

In a statement released on the Gunners’ website, the club thanked Sagna "for his fantastic contribution."

City confirmed Sagna’s arrival and said he will keep the No. 3 jersey he wore at Arsenal.

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