Raheem Sterling feels Manchester City are well equipped to get past Steaua Bucharest and ensure a sixth straight season of Champions League football at the Etihad Stadium.
The winger knows just how important it is to make a fast start to the new season and help build some momentum under new boss Pep Guardiola. Before they face Steaua, City open their league campaign against Sunderland at home on August 13.
They head to Romania on August 17 followed by a lunchtime trip to Stoke on August 20 ahead of the return European tie back at the Etihad Stadium four days later.
Sterling is determined to put down an early marker for what he hopes will be a long and successful first season under the Spanish coach.
“It is right in at the deep end, with three massive games and ones in which we will try to get the result,” Sterling told the club’s website.
“The first game at home against Sunderland is a massive one to kick start our new season, hopefully we get a few wins and make our spirit [will] be right out there.”
Under Manuel Pellegrini last season, Man City could finish only fourth in the table. That means they have to jump the hurdle of the Champions League playoff round in order to join Europe’s elite in the group stage.
While acknowledging that Steaua will be a tough task, Sterling feels City are well placed to qualify with the second leg taking place on home soil.
“It is a good draw for us, but I think it will be a difficult one, away first. For Steaua to be in that draw must mean they are a top team,” he added.
“We just need to try to get a result over there, then come back to hopefully take the win.” Manchester City are 6.50 to beat Sunderland 3-0 in their Premier League opener at the Etihad Stadium.
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