Benjamin Mendy: 'Pep Guardiola behind Manchester City move'

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 24 September 2017

Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy intends to become the world's best left-back after being persuaded to join the club in the summer by Pep Guardiola.

Benjamin Mendy has revealed that Pep Guardiola "played a great role" in his decision to leave Monaco for Manchester City during the summer.

The France international was signed from the Ligue 1 champions for a fee of £52m in July, making him the world's most expensive defender.

After quickly settling into life at the Etihad Stadium, featuring five times for the club in all competitions so far, Mendy is setting his sights high and intends to become the best left-back on the planet.

"I wanted to taste football abroad and leave with my head held high, and Guardiola played a great role in my decision," he told Telefoot. "We talked frankly about football and philosophy, and he is a continuation of the excellent coaches I have had. I am proud of the start I've had to my career.

"Can I become the best left-back in the world? Why not? There is a long way to go, but with work anything is possible. It's not completely crazy. The objective for this season? Win two or three titles with Manchester City; we have one of the best projects in Europe and we want to continue writing the history of this club."

Mendy, a fitness doubt for the midweek Champions League meeting with Shakhtar Donetsk, has yet to lose or draw a match since joining City.