'I have learnt from the difficulties of last season', says Mangala

Eliaquin Mangala moved to City last year in a huge £42million deal fro Porto last year, but had a plagued first season in the Premier League, lacking match fitness.

However Mangala finished the season strongly pairing with Martin Demichelis, but with the return of Kompany alongside the arrival of Otamendi, the frenchman will find it increasingly difficult to find a place in Pellegrini's squad

“I have benefitted and learned from the difficulties of last season,” he said.

“I must be efficient and consistent through the club season, both in the Premier League and in the Champions League and then when I’m with France, I must give assurance to the coach and then the rest is up to him.”

“It’s normal because City is a great club which is looking to bounce back from last season,” he added.

“I know Nico very well from our two years together at Porto."

Valencia wanted to take Mangala on loan as part of the Otamendi deal but the Frenchman explained: "I refused because it would have been a step backwards.

"I felt good enough to win my place."