In two years Nigel de Jong believes both he and Manchester City will reach their peak. The 24-year-old Holland international believes he is better served turning out every week for City than playing a supporting role at a bigger club.

He said: "Everyone wants to play in a top team, but would you get a guaranteed starting place?

"At City I play every week in the best league in Europe.

"I see this as a two-year project. Then I'll only be 26, at the top of my abilities, and I could raise my profile for two seasons."