Yaya Toure believes Manchester City can dominate domestically and in Europe in the years ahead.

The Ivorian midfielder will leave the club after eight seasons when his contract expires this summer and he says he has seen a huge improvement in the club during his time in Manchester.

City have already been crowned Premier League champions and Toure thinks they are now in a strong position to claim more silverware.

The 34-year-old never managed to win a European title in his time at the Etihad Stadium but says the squad have now built a winning mentality similar to that of Barcelona or Real Madrid.

“I am happy. People think I would be sad but I am happy because I leave a good legacy,” he said after Wednesday’s 3-1 win over Brighton – Toure’s final appearance at the Etihad Stadium.

“In the dressing room in the beginning, in 2011, when we lost [games] it was [a place] to smile, laugh. I was not happy with that.

“Now when we lose or draw you see everyone sad or angry. That is the mentality I love.

That is a winning team and the character this team have to have if you want to compete with Barcelona and Madrid, because they are the same.

“They have been educated like that because they are champions. Now we are champions, even though the team are young. I hope next year is going to be bright and much better.”

City travel to Southampton on Sunday in the final round of Premier League fixtures on Sunday and they are 1.44 to pick up all three points or 9.50 to win 3-0.