Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has heaped praise on departing James Milner by admitting that the midfielder is one of his "favourite people".
The 29-year-old agreed to join Liverpool last week on a free transfer after reportedly turning down a new £165,000-a-week contract at the Etihad Stadium.
Al Mubarak has stated that he wanted the England international to stay put, but admits that he could not stand in his way when he opted to make the move to Anfield.
"Milner has been one of my favourites - I don't want to say players, favourite people that have been part of Manchester City's journey," Al Mubarak told City TV.
"I want to thank him for his service to the club - he's been a hard worker, he's been a loyal servant to this club. He's given everything to this club and it's been a joy to watch him win every single domestic trophy.
"I would have liked him to stay but I think he chose his next challenge so we have to support him on that, wish him all the best and he'll never be forgotten at Manchester City."
Milner will finalise his move to Liverpool when he undergoes a medical on July 1.
Danielle Joynson
