The Blues’ boss says if his side begin as though they are already in the lead, it could backfire against a team he believes will be very dangerous and will play without pressure.
“I was very pleased with the win in Porto and think we played really well in both halves, particularly in the second half when we defended well and created a lot of chances.
“Every game is dangerous for different reasons, but it is better start with a 2-1 lead, but I think it’s important to think that it is 0-0 start.”
The City boss reiterated his desire to win the Europa League and that he and his squad are treating the competition with the utmost respect.
“For us, every game is serious and we want to win every match,” he said. “If we win the Europa League it would be an important moment for the Club – I don’t think it will be easy but we will try.
“We will play our normal game on Wednesday but it is vital every player works hard for the team and if we are to have players like Nasri, Silva, Aguero or Balotelli in our starting line-up, every player has to work hard and defend when they need to or else we can’t play with so many attacking players.”
Mancini admitted he hadn’t heard the racial abuse Mario Balotelli was subjected to City have officially complained about to UEFA about.
“I was concentrating on the game so I didn’t really hear anything, but there are some not very clever people in the world and these things are still happening.
“Mario is strong and he doesn’t let things upset him too much. Unfortunately it has happened before in Italy and in France but he is strong.”
