Fellaini arrives as Mirallas departs

 

Thompson lands Fellaini as Mirallas departs

Old pals Marouane Fellaini and Kevin Mirallas have switched clubs

A shock transfer story broke today in 7046 as Manchester City and Bristol City concluded a deal that has seen international team mates Marouane Fellaini and Kevin Mirallas switch clubs. Fellaini has penned a 2 season contract with Steve Thompson's Manchester City While Mirallas agreed a 3 season stay at Ashton Gate. 

Belgium international Fellaini can operate as both a deep lying play maker or attacking midfielder and increases City's options in the middle of the park the 26 year old brings a wealth of experience to the Etihad having a made a total of 217 club appearances with Everton, Carlisle, Tottenham and more recently Bristol City among his former employers. he can also boast an impressive 73 caps for his country Belgium. 

Mirallas departs the Etihad after limited opportunities since his move from Bournemouth. The 26 year old winger made 3 starts for City and a further seven substitute appearances scoring 1 goal. Mirallas will be looking to kick start his season after a frustrating time under Thompson and help his new side push for safety in division one with Bristol City currently lying second bottom of the division.

Man City manager Steve Thompson gave his reaction to his latest signing and the departure of Mirallas......

"This was a deal which has come somewhat out of the blue but i am delighted to get it done and i am very much looking forward to working with Marouane. I have been searching for more quality in the middle of the park and we have certainly got that. Versatility is something i always look for in my players and Marouane has that, he is comfortable playing in a deeper holding role as well as playing in the hole behind the strikers. He is a very good age at 26 and certainly has plenty of experience which i hope will prove vital for the league run in.

We unfortunately say farewell to Kevin Mirallas who has departed to Bristol City in the deal. Kevin has been nothing but first class and i thought long and hard about this deal but he has found his chances limited and i did not want to stand in his way of regular first team football. I am sure he will go on to be a great player John down at Bristol and hopefully he can go and help them avoid relegation.

All in all both teams have got what they wanted from the deal and that is how it should always be"