Outgoing captain Vincent Kompany is the "DNA" of Manchester City, according to club hero Shaun Goater.
City confirmed on Sunday that Kompany's 11-year stay at the club is coming to an end, with the defender's appearance in Saturday's thumping FA Cup final win over Watford his last for the Premier League champions.
In all, Kompany has made 360 appearances for City since joining the club in August 2008, playing a crucial role in four successful Premier League title tilts, two FA Cup victories and four League Cup triumphs.
And Goater, himself a cult figure with City fans, believes that Kompany represents the essence of what the club stands for.
"What a way to bow out, what he's done for the club," the former Bermuda striker told Sky Sports.
"He is the DNA of the club. I'm so proud for him to have being captain, him leading the club, everything he's done for the club. Couldn't speak highly enough of him.
"He's evolved as a player. He was a holding midfielder then evolved into a world class centre-back. A brilliant player. You still see the midfield assets of his when he drives forward from the defensive third.
"He's a brilliant player. It's slightly sad news on a great day because for me he still has so much to offer around the club for young players coming through. I'd like to think there's some sort of ambassadorial role for him because he's absolutely brilliant for the club."
Kompany made 26 appearances in all competitions for City this term, with his game time having been limited by injuries in recent seasons.
However, he still had a vital word in City edging out Liverpool to the league title, scoring an extraordinary goal against Leicester City in the penultimate top-flight fixture of the campaign.
"I still clap today for that goal," Goater added. "What a goal. What a goal to go out with."
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