Yaya Toure admits he feels "guilty" leaving Manchester City for Ivory Coast's African Nations Cup campaign.

The pressure is beginning to build on City after last week's Champions League exit and Monday's Premier League defeat at Chelsea and Toure could be at the Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon, which starts in mid-January, for up to a month.

Toure said: "I have to go because my country is going through some difficult things with the war and everything but I am a bit guilty and confused about it. My loyalties are divided and I feel a little bit sad. The Africa Cup of Nations is a fantastic tournament but this is a crucial time of the season.

"The team, the club and the manager need me but I have to go away and play in a different competition. It's difficult as I am very focused for City."