Manuel Pellegrini spoke to the gathered press on Friday lunchtime in the build up to this Sunday's mouthwatering bank holiday clash against last season's Premier League runners up Liverpool.

During the press conference the boss announced that Mangala 'needs more time' and probably won't play vs Liverpool.

Asked if last season's failure to win the league will affect Liverpool, he said: 'I don't know whether they will be affected. Last season is finished. For Liverpool also.'

I watched Liverpool’s game and we played against them in the United States. We know what they are doing. 'I always say to the players these games are games of six points — especially when you play at home,' he said.

Asked about Balotelli's possible return to The Premier league he said 'I'm not surprised he's back. He is a very good player. He can play anywhere.
'I was not here with Balotelli. It is not my duty to analyse what happened with him here.
'Everybody knows the character of Mario Balotelli. Liverpool decide that he is perfect for them and perfect for Mario.'

Pellegrini also refusing to confirm Negredo will be one to miss out on City's Champions League squad.

Photo: Action Images

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