City defender wary of growing pressure

Zabaleta ready for title defense

By Zain Alvi | 11th July 2012

Pablo Zabaleta is fully prepared for his Manchester City side to become the team to beat following their Premier League triumph two months ago.

A thrilling last-day win allowed the Citizens to celebrate their first league title in over four decades but now that pre-season training for the next campaign has already started, Zabaleta knows that the focus will shift on his teammates’ ability to successfully defend their crown.

While the 27-year old is confident that there is plenty of quality in the City squad to repeat last season’s domestic success, he also knows that opponents will approach them with even more aggression this time around.

“We are back fresh and mentally ready to defend the title. Everyone will want to beat us. There is more pressure than before because we are the champions. It is a very good challenge for us,” Zabaleta told Manchester City’s official website.

The Argentine added: “We are looking forward to it and we are very positive about our chances. When you see the squad we have got then there is every reason to feel that way.”

City boss Roberto Mancini recently signed a new five-year contract to stay in charge at the Eastlands for another five years and with the club retaining most of their key stars from last season, they will certainly start as favorites when the Premier League commences next month.