Source: SKY_Sports
Robinho predicts bright future
Robinho believes Manchester City will soon stand alongside the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
The Blues are keen to establish themselves as a major force in global football, with the Abu Dhabi United Group happy to bankroll their efforts.
The record-breaking acquisition of Brazilian star Robinho from Real last year set the tone, while this summer has seen the club embark on a spending frenzy.
Gareth Barry, Roque Santa Cruz, Carlos Tevez and Emmanuel Adebayor have all been lured to Eastlands, while there remains the promise of more to come.
It remains to be seen whether City's ambitious project will bring about the desired results, but Robinho is confident Mark Hughes' men will join the European elite sooner rather than later.
"The intention of the club now is to be as big as Real Madrid," the 25-year-old playmaker said in The People.
"Manchester City is a very good team and that's what the club want to be. That's what will make the players happy.
"To play with the big stars at Real was brilliant, but Manchester City also have excellent players.
Staying put
"They are not necessarily big stars right now, but they will become very big names.
"In five years, Manchester City will be a very strong team and a big name. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City.
"It is a big project and I want to be a big part of it for a long time. I will be in Manchester for five years, even if it rains, it's not a problem for me."
Robinho insists City are capable of winning the Premier League title this season, but he has revealed who he would be looking to add to the ranks if he was in Hughes' shoes.
"Lionel Messi, Steven Gerrard and Deco," he said.
"I don't know if they'll ever come to City, it's difficult to forecast, but they could play for any team in the world.
"The players who have arrived this summer are also very good players and, with them, we can win the league this season. We want to be champions this term but, if not, we will be very happy to finish in the top four."
