After impressing in Eindhoven last year, Karim Rekik was rumoured to be offered a return to the Philips Stadion ahead of the new Eredivisie campaign. However, in an interview with CityTV today, the defender stated he is out to earn a place in Manuel Pellegrini’s starting line-up at Manchester City.
The big 6ft 1inch central defender had an outstanding year last season under Philip Cocu playing 30 times in all competitions for PSV. He impressed Oranje coach Louis van Gaal too, who named him in his pre-World Cup 30-man provisional squad.
PSV technical director has discussed with the press the possibility of the young defender returning for another stint on loan but in Rekik’s latest interview, the youngster has stated he wants to “fight for a place” at City.
Rekik returned to Manchester this summer and is now currently with the first team in Scotland as part of City’s pre-season program. The 19-year-old is hoping that regular football last year in the Eredivisie has prepared him for his City future.
Rekik told City TV: “I just played every game which I think is important for a young player and it was a great experience for me. I have to spoke to him [Pellegrini] and he said that I had a good year last year and that I need to work now and fight for my place.”
“I will see if I’m ready [City’s first team] and that’s the choice of the manager,” he continued.
You can watch Karim’s full interview below via Youtube and City TV.
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