The versatile Argentinian, who has become a firm crowd favourite since his move from Espanyol, has figured in virtually every match since Mancini arrived at the club in December.
Zabaleta’s willing work-rate and tenacious tackling have endeared him to fans, who tease him over his lack of goals since a spectacular winner against Wigan 14 months ago.
Mancini said: “It’s great for a manager to have a player like Pablo around. He can play in almost every position - maybe not striker, but I’m sure he would do it if I asked him!
“He has done very well in every position I have asked him to play, but for me he is at his best in midfield. I prefer to play him there, but he has been good at left back, right back or anywhere across the midfield.
“It’s also important that if I am making changes during a game, I have players like Pablo can change position when I ask them.”
City’s manager was at Craven Cottage on Thursday night to see Roy Hodgson’s side recover from a 4-1 deficit in their Europa League tie to see off Serie A giants Juventus with a huge effort.
He said: “I want a win on Sunday - we have three very important games coming up next week, it’s a crucial time for us and three points would be the best way to start.
“It will be a hard game, but if we are fully committed on Sunday and keep our concentration then we have a very good chance of doing well.”
Victory is vital in the bid for fourth place. Zabaleta, who switched roles twice at Sunderland, said: “Just hearing the Champions League anthem is exciting! I’ve not played in it yet and I want to change that with City.”
