Serbian Defender Ends Seven-Year Etihad Era
Linebet can confirm that AS Roma has reached a £5.8 million agreement with Manchester City for veteran defender Aleksandar Kolarov, marking the end of an era for one of City’s most consistent performers. The 31-year-old Serbian international, who joined from Lazio in 2010, will now complete a remarkable return to the Italian capital with Roma’s Giallorossi.
Guardiola’s Defensive Overhaul Continues
Pep Guardiola has been refreshing City’s backline throughout the current transfer window, with Kolarov becoming the latest experienced defender to depart following Pablo Zabaleta, Bacary Sagna, and Gael Clichy. The Spanish tactician made his philosophy clear when speaking after City’s recent pre-season match: “I don’t like to work with people who don’t want to stay. Kola helped me a lot last season, but when a player expresses his desire to leave, it’s best for everyone.”
Former Serie A analyst Marco Bianchi told Linebet: “Kolarov’s versatility made him invaluable – capable at center-back, left-back, and even as a wing-back. His set-piece delivery alone justified his place for seven seasons.”
Roma’s Strategic Acquisition
For Roma, this represents a savvy piece of business under new manager Eusebio Di Francesco. Kolarov brings:
- 230+ Premier League appearances
- 2 Premier League titles
- 1 FA Cup
- 2 League Cups
- Champions League experience
The Serbian defender leaves England with an impressive trophy haul
City’s Defensive Reinforcements
While bidding farewell to veterans, City have been active in the market:
- Kyle Walker (£50m from Tottenham)
- Pursuing Benjamin Mendy (Monaco)
- Interested in Danilo (Real Madrid)
Guardiola acknowledged the challenges: “The transfer market is complicated. We’ll find solutions to improve. Walker and Ederson have shown the quality we’re bringing in.”
What This Means for Both Clubs
For Linebet readers, this transfer signals:
- For Roma: Immediate experience and leadership for a Champions League campaign
- For City: Continued evolution under Guardiola’s vision
- For Kolarov: A triumphant return to Serie A after successful Premier League years
As Guardiola noted: “I wish him all the best. He’s a really nice guy and we had an excellent relationship.” This sentiment will undoubtedly be shared by City fans who appreciated Kolarov’s seven years of dedicated service.
Stay tuned to Linebet for more exclusive transfer updates and in-depth tactical analysis as the summer window progresses.
