Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini admits surprise to be playing in the Champions League this season.
Mancini admitted at the weekend that Champions League football has come to City even quicker than he had hoped.
"I came to Manchester City because it was a fantastic opportunity," he said.
"I wanted to challenge myself in a different championship and because English football is so good.
"Of course, playing in the Champions League was all part of the project. But I thought we would need more time. We're in the competition sooner than I thought.
"However, the club has made good investments, bought good players. We deserve to be where we are.
"I know what this means to the Manchester City fans, but it's also important for me. I'm returning to the Champions League after three or four years.
"It's an exciting competition and I understand why people are getting excited.
"Our target is to improve all the time and to arrive at the top and win the League and Champions League in the future. I am excited but we still do need to improve."
