In keeping with tradition, the UEFA Super Cup opens the new football season in Europe in August, bringing the Champions

Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has criticised his colleagues for what he termed a ‘tough day’ as they suffered an ignominious 2-0 defeat at the hands of Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday.

Manuel Pellegrini was ‘not unhappy’ with Manchester City, despite their defeat to Juventus in Turin which means they face a fight to achieve top spot in their group.

Former Aston Villa captain Fabian Delph is set for a place on the bench as Manchester City travel to the Midlands on Sunday for new manager Rémi Garde’s first match in charge of the Villains.

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has applauded Manchester City’s flawless performance after their 3-1 victory away to Sevilla on Tuesday night.

Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho has commended his teammates after a last-minute Yaya Toure penalty gave the home side a nerve-jangling late win against newly-promoted Norwich City at the Etihad on Saturday.

Prior to his much-praised tactical last season conversion, Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini was often bemoaned by fans for his unwavering dedication to what many saw as an archaic 4-4-2 system.

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal believes his side are underdogs ahead of the Manchester derby at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Manchester City’s free-scoring form has handed manager Manuel Pellegrini a boost ahead of crucial matches against Sevilla in the Champions League on Wednesday and Manchester United in the derby on Sunday.

As far as games go early in Manchester City’s season, welcoming Europa League champions Sevilla in the Champions League four days before their top flight derby with Manchester United is about as important as it gets.

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero is full of respect for old boss Quique Sanchez Flores but knows the now Watford manager will make his promoted side a threat at the Etihad on Saturday.