The veteran Champions League winner insists that changes at the top are part and parcel of the game at the highest level and players are able to take the switch in their stride.
City are being put through their paces by former Inter Milan boss Mancini’s new coaching team with a home match against stubborn Stoke the next obstacle in the pursuit of a top-four place.
As a professional you have to work hard for the new coach, because you know that in a few days you have another important game. And the Premier League is difficult, you must prepare properly.
...Sylvinho...
Former Barcelona star Sylvinho said: “Sometimes these things happen when you are talking about football at this level, and as a player you have to be prepared to adapt quickly.
“Whatever happens, we try to do our best. We can’t be thinking about Mark Hughes, who was a good manager trying to do his best for the club, there is no time. Football changes too quickly.
“As a professional you have to work hard for the new coach, because you know that in a few days you have another important game. And the Premier League is difficult, you must prepare properly.”
The Brazilian left-back knows fans might expect an Italian coach to naturally focus on plugging the leaks at the back, but he added: “He doesn’t just concentrate on the defence.
“Yes, he is tactical - the Italian League is one of the best in the world. He will try to make the team safe, but he wants to get all the positions correct. I think he’ll be good for us.”
Sylvinho is adamant that impressing Mancini with senior places at stake will come second to landing the holiday victories over Stoke and Wolves that would send City flying into New Year.
He said: “We’re not just out to impress, most of us as experienced players. We’ll try to win the points - winning games gets you higher in the table, that gives you confidence to be a bit more comfortable.
“Stoke is now very important, and they are going to be hard to beat. We will have to work very hard and keep our concentration to win the game - and that means everyone in the team.”
