Europa League verdict: Manchester City 3 Aris Salonika 0

It was hoped that City would continue from where they left off against Notts County and so they did. Edin Dzeko bagged an early brace to set Roberto Mancini’s side on the road to a comfortable victory which was sealed with a deflected second half strike by Yaya Toure.

Mancini deployed Tevez, Dzeko, Balotelli and Silva for the first time and the results were impressive. Those who believe Mancini has been overly cautious in not deploying them before are guilty of overlooking Balotelli’s injury problems.

Continue Reading →

Blue Days 26 February 2011

Aris Salonika / Europa League /

Europa League preview: Manchester City v Aris Salonika

City continue their run of cup games with a finely balanced second leg against Aris Salonika. Roberto Mancini previously sent out a strong line-up in Greece with the intention of killing the tie and enabling him to rest players ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Fulham.

That win failed to materialise with a subdued performance from several players, following the derby defeat to United. Tonight, Mancini’s selection options are reduced by injuries and the need for victory.

Continue Reading →

Blue Days 24 February 2011

Aris Salonika / Europa League /