Champions League Man City versus Napoli Wednesday 14th September 2011

Manchester City were awesome this Saturday. Aguero and Tevez upfront with the 4 goal hero Dzeko ( versus Tottenham away - killer result) on the bench. The type of start that Mancini knew he had to make, he is being watched in the same way that the toughest continental boards judge their heavily pressured coaches.

Exciting times for Manchester City fans - as a Spurs fan it was a dream being in the Champs League but I really believe they will have 5 seasons from now at least to play in this fantasy football world. Amazing that it was 41 years ago when they won the UEFA European Cup Winners' Cup. So can Manchester City get out of their Champions League group? Bayern Munich, Villarreal and Napoli are all really decent teams that have pushed Chelsea and Manchester United in recent Champions League seasons. However, the aggressive, sometimes reckless squad strengthening that Manchester City have implemented is now starting to create a formidable core of class and determination.

In a recent interview cited by the BBC, Man City boss Mancini sounds confident of their prospects against the Italians: "Probably it will help because we have played five games including the Community Shield," Mancini said. "Napoli have played only one game, Wednesday is exciting for us but also for them."
However Man City could well be missing de Jong, Barry and Milner. Balotelli will be missing through suspension. Will it make a difference? I don't think so, I reckon City will do it - 2-0 is my prediction. Manchester City are looking at Barcelona to set the bar as their ambition is considerable - I think they stand a very good chance of last eight.