Manchester City hero Peter Barnes has praised the club for passing on Alexis Sanchez.

The Chile striker moved to rivals Man United last month after City withdrew from the chase to sign him.

Barnes said: “I think Pep made a huge statement. I like Sanchez as a player but I don't think any player is worth £500,000-plus a week.

“And after just giving Kevin De Bruyne a new contract of around £280,000 a week, Sanchez coming in on the reported wages could have upset the apple cart.

“He was also coming in halfway through the season when a lot of the hard work has already been done.

“And also, he is not a player it seems who will accept at times being placed on the bench. He appears to be a bit of mercenary, only moving for the most money."