Maicon has vowed to remain a Manchester City player next season, despite a tricky first campaign in England.
The 31-year-old moved to the Etihad Stadium in August for £3.5million, but spent much of the year on the sidelines.
However, the Brazilian full back has hit back at rumours he will be heading for the exit when the transfer window re-opens this summer.
“I can completely guarantee you that I’ll not leave,” Maicon told Lancenet. “I’m calm and I don’t care about what they wrote about me.
“My only objective is to help the team and don’t have any more injuries, as my goal is to return to the national team.”
Maicon – once considered the world’s best right back – has made just 11 appearances in a City shirt this season.
A string of persistent injuries and the outstanding form of Argentine Pablo Zabaleta have combined to prevent a run in the first team.
However, despite the recent return from injury of even more stiff competition, in the form of Micah Richards, the Brazilian is eager to make his mark in the North West.
“I didn’t have one of my best seasons,” added Maicon. “I had physical problems that prevented me from playing all the games as I used to.
“It was a complicated season, but I recovered in the last part of the season and I’m prepared to help the team.”
For large parts of the season, the former Inter Milan defender has watched City slip well behind Manchester United in the Premier League.
However, after seeing the Red Devils clinch the title on Monday night, he is prepared to help his side regain the trophy next year.
And, in the more immediate future, Maicon will be hoping he has a role to play in next month’s FA Cup final against Wigan Athletic.
Image courtesy of mcfcofficial, via YouTube, with thanks.
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