“This night is so special for me,” Manchester City and Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure declared on the podium as he took his prize.
“Thank you to all of you. Even my captain [Didier Drogba] is here today. Thanks to everyone and we are happy for this award.”
Pundits had predicted a triumph for Champions League and FA Cup winner Didier Drogba. Despite the defeat, the former Chelsea striker looked upbeat all night. When asked if he was dissatisfied with his second-place finish, he responded:
“[Yaya Toure] has been very consistent since the past two years and even if I won the Champions League and the FA Cup, I didn’t really play during the first part of the season.
“For me it’s normal to see Yaya win and I’m very proud. I have to say it’s good for Ivory Coast. I’m very proud to compete against him. He is my brother. There’s absolutely no reason why I should be disappointed.”
Didier Drogba is currently based in China with Shanghai Shenhua but speculations have linked him with a return to Europe. Meanwhile, the domestic campaign continues for 2012 CAF African Footballer of the Year winner Yaya Toure.
After retaining his crown, the midfielder's focus must switch on helping Manchester City defend their English Premier League title. The Citizens are currently six points off leaders Manchester United. They will host Reading this weekend while the Red Devils will play away to Swansea City.
