Muslim Anelka to quit England

"The Muslim religion interests me," he said. "When I'm in Trappes, I hang out with Muslims and we discuss it a lot. In the summer we're outdoors until 4am, so we have the time to talk.

"I listen to them in order to understand and learn, just like Roberto Baggio on Buddhism. It opens your mind and the subject fascinates me, just like astronomy does."

Earlier this year, it was reported he had visited the state-funded school in London founded by Yusef Islam, formerly the singer Cat Stevens.

Now it appears his conversion is now complete and a new chapter is about to start in his controversial life.

Many thought the talented striker might be representing France at Euro 2004 but after falling out with the previous manager Roger Lemerre, current boss Jacques Santini refused to have him back, despite Anelka making an apology.

He signed for City two summers ago for £13million but last season he appeared unsettled again.

He first came to English football as an 18-year-old when Arsene Wenger spotted his talent.

He helped Arsenal to the Double in 1998 but alienated fans by demanding to leave for Real Madrid, to whom he was sold for more than £23m, a profit of more than £22m.

Controversy there led to a move to Paris St Germain and he came close to joining Liverpool after a loan spell at Anfield.

But thoughts of a permanent deal were abandoned when he clashed with Gerard Houllier before he revived his career at City.