Santa Cruz remained a City player when the transfer window shut at 6pm, despite boss Roberto Mancini telling him he was not in his plans for the upcoming campaign.
Lazio ended their interest in the Paraguay striker earlier today after failing to agree terms while talk of a move to Fulham did not extend beyond speculation.
Santa Cruz, who endured an injury-interrupted first season with City last term, is focused on proving he has a role to play.
"Unfortunately I heard from the manager himself that he won't be counting on me this season. He was trying to see if he could arrange a move," Santa Cruz told Sky Sports News.
"But at the end the club was happy to keep me. In the end they weren't happy with anything (offers) that came through. Football changes a lot from time to time.
"Now I'll try and prove myself in training. Prove I'm healthy. I'm looking forward to my chances."
Source: PA
Source: PA