'The idea is not to return to Manchester City' - Out-on-loan star rejects possible return to Etihad Stadium

Amongst the several youngsters from Manchester City that made a name for themselves out on loan last season, Issa Kabore was arguably at the top of the list.

Heading out on loan to ESTAC Troyes during the 2021/22 campaign, the 21-year-old started a commendable 26 games for the City Football Group-owned side.

The highly-rated right-back made an instant impression in French football, cementing his reputation as one of the most in-form young players in a division with potential superstars galore.

Some even went on to say that Issa Kabore was one of the finest right-backs in Ligue 1 last term, which indicates just how well he adapted to senior football.

As a result, the Burkinabe international has earned a move to Olympique Marseille this season, with an option to buy in place for €20 million should he shine in the ongoing campaign.

Interestingly, the Premier League champions have inserted a buy-back option for the gifted defender, which also applies in the cases of fellow starlets such as Gavin Bazunu, Romeo Lavia, Juan Larios and Samuel Edozie.

As a result, it is natural to assume that Pep Guardiola’s side consider Issa Kabore as a potential successor to Kyle Walker, who turned 32 this year.

Furthermore, the England international is showing increasing signs of becoming significantly more injury prone than during the start of his Sky Blues career.

Keeping that in mind, it was suggested by many that the youngster would be motivated to return to his parent club one day, knowing that he stands a chance of becoming a regular member of the first-team.

Issa Kabore in Troyes action (Independent Photo Agency / Alamy)

However, the player confirmed during his presentation with the French giants that such assumptions are far from the truth.

“The idea is to play and to stay at Marseille.

"It’s not to return to Manchester City," he admitted, as relayed by La Provence and translated by Sport Witness.

Issa Kabore continued, “OM are a great club that are going to bring a lot to me.

"We discussed a bit with Charles (Kaboré) before my transfer. It counted but not that much.

"It was a dream to come here and I’m ready to give my best. On the left or on the right, it’s the same thing. I can play on both sides.”

Manchester City defender Issa Kabore

Ultimately, the player’s admission may come as a blow to Manchester City, who clearly rated his potential as they inserted a buy-back clause for a reason.

However, City are expected not to mope about Issa Kabore’s decision and instead are likely to have a succession plan in place for the ageing Kyle Walker.