Manuel Pellegrini Addresses Yaya Toure Concerns, Manchester Derby and More

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini is adamant that star midfielder Yaya Toure is indeed happy despite the player's insistence to the contrary.  

According to the Daily Mirror's David Anderson, Pellegrini said:

"

He says he is not happy about the criticism. He is happy. That is different. They are different words, you can interpret them how you want, but he is happy here.

I don't think I have to answer how happy is Yaya. The answer is in his performances in the last four years he plays. He is a very important player and he demonstrates that in every game.

"

The Chilean's comments come in the wake of Toure's astonishing interview with L'Equipe, per French football writer and broadcaster Matt Spiro:

Anderson also notes the Ivorian cited a "lack of recognition" at his role in City's success as a cause of his unhappiness.

As Sky Sports' Peter Smith reports, the mercurial midfielder has had something of a roller-coaster ride with the Sky Blues since joining in 2010, from playing key roles in two title wins to casting doubt on his future at the club over a supposed slight over a birthday cake last year.

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

However as Smith's article also demonstrates, the 32-year-old has been duly praised for his impact on City's success and deservedly criticised when he's failed to match his own high standards to the detriment of the team.

It's possible Pellegrini's reiteration of Toure's importance could go some way to placating the midfielder, but it's imperative he and the club continue to do their utmost to keep him happy.

Further, his words alone aren't likely to comfort City supporters—who will likely realise that to maintain their title challenge throughout the season, Toure's morale and subsequent displays on the pitch will be vital.

If the club aren't able to placate him, it may be time for both parties to move on.

Pellegrini also maintained his team would be focused when they take on Sevilla at the Etihad on Wednesday—but does not buy suggestions that Manchester United will be hindered in Sunday's derby by travelling to Moscow, per Anderson: "I don't think that will make a difference in the derby. From Wednesday to Sunday, you have a lot of time to recover. We are just thinking about Sevilla to try and win tomorrow to get three important points."

Miguel Angel Morenatti/Associated Press

While an away match with CSKA Moscow is hardly ideal preparation for the Red Devils, it's not overly likely to have a significant impact on Sunday's outcome.

First, though, is City's own important Champions League encounter—one in which defeat would be a serious setback to their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Unai Emery's side have recovered well after a difficult start to the season, so the Sky Blues will need to be at their best to assure themselves a victory.