De Jong explains Man City snub

Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, was reportedly desperate to sign young Dutch star Frenkie de Jong. But he was beaten by the greater allure of Barcelona, who de Jong describes as his "dream club".

"I spoke with Guardiola about a move to Man City," de Jong told Dutch outlet NOS. "Clubs all try to convince you when they want you. I am happy and proud that they did so much to get me. Barcelona have always been a dream club for me. The fact that they were so serious about getting me and that I have a good chance of getting playing time made the decision a bit easier."

"I already watched Barcelona as a kid and then when I was a bit more aware of the game you had the Guardiola era with all their successes. 

"That turned me into an even bigger fan. I have always been a big fan of Messi, although I liked the entire team."