Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini believes his side can go on to win the Champions League – if they manage to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition.
City, who can be backed at 9/1 with bookmaker to win the tournament, defeated Villarreal 3-0 in Spain, with Yaya Toure grabbing a brace and Mario Balotelli netting a penalty. Mancini’s side will be guaranteed a place in the latter stages of the competition if they can beat Napoli in Italy on 22nd November.
The outlook was not quite so optimistic in October ahead of City’s dramatic home win over Villarreal, and Mancini highlighted that victory as pivotal in his side’s season.
“It changed something in our heads,” said the Italian.
“It was not only important for our Champions League fortunes but for the team as a whole.
“The team have improved in this competition since the first group match. If we make the knockout stages then anything can happen because we’re a good team.”