Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has insisted that his side were "clear" with their deadline-day approach for Leicester City winger Riyad Mahrez.
The comments come after Foxes boss Claude Puel questioned City's timing with the £65m bid, which resulted in Mahrez taking a 10-day absence that included six training sessions and two games.
Guardiola has said, however, that his team's approach for the Algerian was made with respect for both the East Midlands club and the player.
"I think the club made a statement and it was so clear what happened," the Spaniard told The Telegraph.
"The club made a statement and always tries to do the best for us, and of course respecting the opponents."
City face Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup on Monday, following a 4-0 victory over Basel in the Champions League.