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Aguero aims to salvage City's CL campaign

Sergio Aguero is expected to return to the Manchester City side after injury © PA Photos

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Manager Roberto Mancini believes Manchester City have become one of the best clubs in the world and wants to stay for many years to prove it.

City have made considerable progress since Mancini took charge almost two years ago, winning the FA Cup last season and launching a serious Premier League title bid this term.

Further success could make the former Inter Milan boss a target for other clubs across the continent, but he is keen to see his work at the Etihad Stadium earn greater reward.

On the eve of a Champions League clash with Villarreal, the 46-year-old, who succeeded Mark Hughes in December 2009, said: "I started to work here two years ago.

"I have worked hard to build a good team and I think I would like to stay here another three or four years because I think in this moment Manchester City is one of the best clubs in the world.''

The FA Cup triumph was City's first trophy success for 35 years while this year's league start - topping the table with seven wins and a draw from eight games - is their best in any division since 1897.

Mancini also appears to have enhanced his position through his handling of the ongoing Carlos Tevez situation, which has earned him plaudits. Yet despite speaking from a position of strength, Mancini says he has not begun negotiations over a new contract and insists it is not a priority.

Mancini said: "I would like to stay here for many years in the future but it is not important, my contract. After this year I have one more year and I don't have a problem with this. I haven't talked to the club but at the moment it is not important.''

Sergio Aguero trained on Monday and could return to the side after injury with Mario Balotelli, impressive in the 4-1 defeat of Aston Villa on Saturday, suspended.

David Silva, Samir Nasri and Edin Dzeko, all substitutes at the weekend as Mancini juggled his resources, could also come back in.

Villarreal goalkeeper Diego Lopez accepts he may be in for a busy night at Manchester City tomorrow but is ready to rise to the challenge.

City, also anxious to register their first victory in the competition, have demonstrated their formidable attacking ability this term by scoring 27 goals in eight domestic league games and Lopez expects a tough evening.

The 29-year-old Spain international said: "We are mindful of the fact we are playing against the leaders of the English league, a top side. But, with respect, you would expect them to create more chances on their own patch than we will manage to create.

"But at this level we have got to show we are up to it and can cope with this situation. We will treat the opponents with respect but we will come here with desire and determination to do well and give a good account of ourselves.''

Villarreal, who finished fourth in La Liga last term, have struggled this season and are a lowly 13th at home after a goalless draw at Getafe on Saturday.

They also have a number of injury problems with forwards Marco Ruben and Nilmar, midfielders Javier Camunas and Marcos Senna and defender Angel Lopez all failing to make the trip.

Key battle: Borja Valero will aim to exploit any space between City's defence and midfield - an area teams have exploited in the competition - so Nigel de Jong must be on his guard.

Prediction: 3-1

Bet of the day: Sergio Aguero to score two or more, 3/1 with bet365

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.