The imposing Ivorian has looked right at home after moving to City from Barcelona in the summer, and looking around he already knows what is required to cope with the rigours of the Barclays Premier League.
The tempo and physical nature of the game here are the perfect blend for the 27-year-old midfielder, who says:
The biggest change is that in Spain they play slowly but with a lot of quality. Here everyone is fighting and running for the opportunity to play football. I love that.
“I think I am suited to the Premier League. It is not so easy but I have a lot of respect for Chelsea and Manchester United. Manchester City are just starting with a lot of new players and a lot of big players. If we work hard I am totally sure Manchester City can have a good year and join these clubs.”
Following the fine win in Salzburg on Thursday, City return to domestic matters on Sunday when they visit the DW Stadium, exactly the kind of game that Yaya says must win in the quest for Champions League football.
“We know it is going to be a very tough game,” he adds. “Wigan are a team just like Sunderland and Blackburn, they will work hard, it will not be easy for us but the three points are very important.”
“Wigan are going to be very confident after beating Tottenham. It is not easy playing a league game straight after a European match, but these are the games we need to win. Manchester City need to finish third or fourth in the table - that is the target. We have to qualify for the Champions League.”
