Manchester City are attempting to make a greater impact in the Champions League while retaining their Premier League crown, Goal assesses how Manuel Pellegrini's men are shaping up ahead of the new campaign.
Manuel Pellegrini has expanded his options in defence and midfield ahead of the new season with Bacary Sagna providing direct competition for Pablo Zabaleta at right-back, while Eliaquim Mangala is set to become Vincent Kompany’s regular partner in central defence, with Martin Demichelis, who turns 34 in December, providing a sturdy back-up option.
Behind the back four another interesting battle is lined up with Willy Caballero, who is reunited with Pellegrini from their time together at Malaga, competing alongside Joe Hart.
Hart’s form dipped during last season and while the England international was able to recover, Caballero has the ability to apply serious pressure on his new team-mate if another slip-up occurs.
In midfield, City have been lacking bite since the departure of Nigel de Jong in 2012 but the arrival of Fernando, nicknamed 'The Octopus' for his tackling prowess, should provide the security Pellegrini needed at times last term, particularly in Europe.
Frank Lampard has joined on loan until January but is unlikely to be handed a regular role. A more interesting option, judging by his performances during City’s pre-season tour of the United States, is Bruno Zuculini.
The 21-year-old, who has arrived from Racing Club, has shown an excellent range of passing, the energy to operate as a box-to-box midfielder and the ability to time his runs in the opposing third. A loan move has been touted but the Argentine has shown the initial capabilities of being a useful squad player.
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