Bacary Sagna has reflected on his departure from Arsenal in the summer of 2014, when he joined Manchester City as a free agent. The defender had spent seven years at the Emirates and was an integral part of Arsene Wenger’s side during that period.Reports at the time suggested Arsenal were keen to retain his services, yet Sagna opted to move to City, where he was offered improved financial terms. Manchester City were rapidly establishing themselves as one of Europe’s emerging powerhouses, pursuing a strategy focused on recruiting leading players from rival Premier League clubs.A Controversial SwitchCity signed several high-profile figures from Arsenal during that era, including Emmanuel Adebayor, a trend that did not sit well with supporters in north London. As a result, players who made the move often faced criticism from sections of the Arsenal fanbase.Sagna’s decision was viewed by many as damaging to his standing at the Emirates. Equally, he did not become a particularly celebrated figure at the Etihad. Years later, however, he has provided insight into the personal and professional considerations behind his choice.(Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)Sagna Explains His DecisionThe Frenchman addressed the matter candidly when discussing the circumstances surrounding his exit. He said via the Metro, “Leaving Arsenal, it was a very difficult decision for me to make.“I remember being emotional at the start of the 2013-14 season without having really talked to anyone at the club, and I got frustrated.“Emotionally, I think I was damaged, and this is the moment when I decided to leave. I wanted to feel loved and respected – I knew I was loved and respected a lot, but contractually, I signed a new contract in 2008 and between then and 2014, I never changed my contract.“So at that time, in 2013, I thought I deserved it a new contract, but it didn’t come.”His comments suggest that, beyond financial considerations, a desire for renewed recognition and contractual acknowledgement played a decisive role in his departure._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, please contact us through this link…More Stories / Latest News“I wanted to feel loved and respected.” Ex-Gunners explains why he left2 March 2026, 22:00Opinion – Arsenal and Chelsea have switched identities2 March 2026, 21:00Arsenal sets some good stats with their win against Chelsea2 March 2026, 20:00The post “I wanted to feel loved and respected.” Ex-Gunners explains why he left appeared first on Just Arsenal News.