The former German international was signed from Bayern Munich on a one-year deal last summer but Kevin Keegan has chosen not to offer the 34-year-old a new contract, therefore allowing him to leave on a free.

"I will be very sad because I have enjoyed my time at Manchester City so much," Tarnat told Sky Sports.

"The manager has spoken with my agent and I am told my contract will stop at the end of the season, and I will not get a new one.

"I am very disappointed because, three weeks ago, he suggested to my agent that maybe if we stayed up I could possibly stay at City. I was happy with that because I have settled well here.

"I will miss the City fans especially. They are the best I have played for in my whole career. They create an incredible atmosphere and are so loyal.

"I hope that they feel I have given them something to remember me by this season. I hope they think of me as a true professional who helped bring the club a little bit forward."