England midfielder Milner completed his move from Aston Villa this afternoon then assured Blues fans that nothing but the big prize will satisfy his ambition - or long-term admirer Mancini’s for that matter.
James, who joins in a deal that takes Stephen Ireland to Villa Park, admitted: “It didn’t take too much selling by the boss when you see the players who are already here and the plans for the club.
“The last thing he said to me was ‘be ready for the next game’, and then he said ‘be ready to win the Premier League’, and that’s my ultimate aim - that’s what I want to do and why I’m here.
“There’s a lot of competition to get there, it’s where we all want to be. I’m ambitious and I want to win trophies here. I believe this is a great place to do that and I believe we will do it. Hopefully, sooner rather than later.”
Milner’s transfer was first mooted before this summer’s World Cup, where he featured in England’s campaign, and he added: “The move seems to have gone on a long time - now all I want to do is get out on the field and play.
I’m ready and raring to go now we’ve finally got everything done. I can’t wait to start a new chapter
“This is a great club that’s going places very quickly. I played at Maine Road with Leeds and the new stadium has always had a great atmosphere when I’ve played here.”
Having made his League debut at 16, Milner has acquired huge experience at 24 - including a remarkable 45 Under-21 caps - but he expects City’s stellar squad to help him become an even better player.
James, poised for a League debut in the home opener against Liverpool on Monday night, said: “If you’re not improving and learning every day then there’s something wrong.
“I’ve been lucky with my team-mates and managers, and you have to learn when you are surrounded by top players. You try to take the best things out of their game, add them to your own, and try to become the best player you can.”
