Pellegrini focused on City’s quality

MANCHESTER City manager Manuel Pellegrini is convinced he has the firepower to combat Barcelona.

Pellegrini accepts his side face a tough task in their Champions League last–16 tie — but he is far from intimidated.

The Chilean has spoken confidently about his attacking game plan all season and he was again in bullish mood: “Of course it is a different game because it is a different team that will be here in England.

“But I think we must continue concentrating on our qualities as a team. That is the way to try to have a

victory at home in the first leg.

“I know the way they play, they have top players. But we have top players and that is very important.”

Pellegrini’s assurance at his pre–match press conference also extended to proclaiming City as Manchester’s pre–eminent force, ahead of United.

He said: “If we only consider this season, there is just one club in Manchester and it’s ours, but you cannot forget what United has done in the previous years.

“We are aiming to keep growing by winning many trophies — not just national but international trophies.”

City are lifted by the likely return of midfielder Fernandinho after a fortnight out with a muscle injury.

The Brazilian played a full part in final training before the match.