Former Cote d’Ivoire skipper star Yaya Toure has joined second tier Chinese club Qingdao Huanghai.

The 36-year-old has been without a club since having his contract terminated by Greek giants Olympiakos last December.

Toure’s time away from football forced him to deny retirement rumours in May.

The ex-Ivory Coast international enjoyed a trophy-laden eight-year spell with City, winning three Premier League titles, two EFL Cups and an FA Cup.

The midfielder’s new club, Qingdao Huanghai, are top of Chinese League One by four points after 15 games as they look to play in China’s top tier for the first time in their history.

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In a statement on his website, Toure said: “Since the start of my football career, I have always loved challenges and now I have decided to take this new challenge and make history once again with Qingdao Huanghai Football Club.

“This is a very exciting young club with a lot of potential and we share the same philosophy – that is to play beautiful football. It will be my great honour to grow and succeed with this club.

“I am very happy to be part of the Huanghai family here in Qingdao, China. The club owner Mr. Wang and everyone here at the club makes me feel at home.

“The fans have also been fantastic and showed so much love.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the club owner and staff for their warm welcome and my Chinese agent for the great care and support.

“I believe my experiences in football will offer something new to this growing club and together we can make great history.

“I can’t wait to let my football do the magic once again, let’s enjoy football together.”