REPORTS: Nasri Asks Wenger Not To Cup-Tie Him To Push Through City Move

Samir Nasri has asked Arsene Wenger not to play him against Udinese in the Champions League second leg qualifier on Wednesday so that he remains eligible to play in the Champions League, allowing Manchester City to sign him as soon as possible, according to the Guardian.

Wenger has been forced to accept Nasri’s position, and the French midfielder will now not travel to Italy on Tuesday to prepare for the all important game on Wednesday.

Wenger had said earlier in the week that he had no problems in selecting Nasri for the mid-week game, because qualifying for the Champions League is more important than the individual case of Nasri. However, under pressure from Nasri, Manchester City’s manager Roberto Mancini, and probably the board, who wish to cash in on £25 million rated Nasri,Wenger has had to back down in his stance.

Wenger raised some eyebrows when he played Nasri against Liverpool on Saturday, as some thought his move to City was imminent, however, there are still some fine points to complete, including sorting out the fees of agents and lawyers who have been involved in the process.

Nasri seems keen to have the deal completed, as do City, and once Arsenal finally have the guarantee of the money from the sale, Wenger can begin to rebuild his side with the needed replacements. However, in the immediate future of the Udinese game, it is a blow for Arsenal, who will now have to hold onto their narrow goal lead away from home without one of their bes attacking players.

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