Former Manchester City defender, Joleon Lescott has backed Pep Guardiola’s side to win the UEFA Champions League trophy this year.
Lescott believes Man City can win the Europe top-flight competition this season ahead of Barcelona and Real Madrid because Guardiola’s men are presently wiser than before.
The ex-centre-back told Love Sport Radio: “I hope they [Man City] can do it [win the Champions League this year]. It’s hard to say if they really will but experience helps, and they’ve got a lot more experience now. They’re older now, they’re wiser, and that experience really helps.
“We’ve certainly got that ability – there’s some real quality in that squad, and they’ve been so close for the last couple of years. I hope we avoid English opposition, but I think City can mix it with the very best”.
“Teams like Real Madrid and Barcelona will fear Manchester City – and with good reason.”
Manchester City will take on Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 first leg tie on February 26 at the Santiago Bernabeu.