Nasri denies money motivation

Published Jan. 21, 2012 1:16 p.m. ET

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The midfielder has endured a tough start to life in Manchester since arriving in August, having struggled to pin down a regular spot in Roberto Mancini's star-studded side.

Nasri is adamant it was the right career move, a point he feels is proved by City's superior position in the Premier League, with Mancini's leaders currently sitting 15 points clear of the Gunners.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is among those who have suggested an increase in wages was the primary motivation behind the Frenchman's move north.

But Nasri insists he joined City to fulfil his footballing ambitions and would have moved elsewhere if money had been the driving force behind his decision.

He told The Times: "When you're a fan of a club, you don't know what happens on the inside. The easiest thing for the fans to say is 'He went there for the money, he betrayed us'.

"I had a better (financial) proposition in another country, which I didn't choose.

"Yes I have good wages here, I can't deny, but every player has good wages. If you play at Arsenal, you have better wages than somewhere else.

"I didn't choose Manchester City for the money. The Premier League table shows that."

Nasri admits his debut season at City has been disappointing so far but puts his poor form down to the upheaval of changing clubs.

"So far it's not my best season," he added. "It's always difficult when you change clubs, even when you stay in the same league.

"I had a difficult season at Arsenal too, my first one, and after that everything went well.

"I've had a discussion with the manager. I know how things are. I know that, if I score goals and make assists, then I'll play. If I'm not in good form, I won't play.

"I'm a competitor and I love playing in the big games. But sometimes you have to accept that, in a big squad, you have to be on the bench, especially if you're not in good form. Then, when you have the chance, you have to show you deserve to play."