Antoine Sibierski, who played for both clubs, feels that Newcastle could shock City.
Antoine Sibierski: “People say Newcastle are the shock team but I knew they would do well – they have so many French players!
"Alan Pardew has brought in Sylvain Marveaux from Rennes for nothing, Cabaye for £4million after winning the French cup and league – I can’t believe only two English clubs were in for him – and Hatem ben Arfa.
“Alan Pardew also knows his football, and knows about attitude and discipline. A good friend of mine is close to Cabaye, and he talks about the attitude they have at Newcastle on the pitch and off it.
“City are on fire, and I can’t see Newcastle defending for the whole game.
“They will attack, and try to score goals and that will leave spaces for City to exploit.
“That means David Silva will get on the ball, and that is a big advantage for City.
“But you can’t underestimate Newcastle – they are on a good run and have great team spirit, so I wouldn’t be surprised if they got a result.”
"Mario Balotelli is a big character, difficult to manage and can react in a bad way sometimes.
“I don’t think anyone could manage him like Mancini, who has known him for a few years.
“It’s another area where you have to be psychologically very good, as it could kill your team spirit if you get it wrong.
“But you want characters like Mario in your team. You don’t just want followers – you need a rebel, you need two or three with big characters.
“As a manager a player like Mario is a good challenge, because he is such a good player that you would always take the risk and put him in your team, and get the best from him.
“We have all heard about the arguments at City on the training ground and in the dressing room, but that is exactly what you want. You don’t want it flat.
“It was the same when I was at City – we had Joey Barton! He is a very good player and a big character and with him around you know every day won’t be an easy day, but that is what you want.”
Source: FOOTYMAD
