Mancini dismisses Becks jibe that City are no United

David Beckham may think Manchester City are "never going to be Manchester United", but according to Blues boss Roberto Mancini, the tide may be turning.
 
The Italian has responded to the derisive comments of the former Red Devil in measured language. "Well, we started to win last year, and we want to continue to win in future," he said, referring to City's FA Cup triumph in May, the club's first piece of silverware for 35 years.
 
"Of course, it's going to be difficult for us to arrive at the point where United are," he admitted at a press conference ahead of this weekend's friendly between Beckham's current team, LA Galaxy, and Man City. "They have won everything in the last 20 years. But we want to try – and in the future we can improve and talk about this."
 
Mancini's cool response contrasts with the dismissive tone of Beckham's comments about Man City ahead of the friendly. "The money that has been pumped in has been incredible," said Beckham. "Players have been bought and that does a lot for the club and for the team. But United have that history and it's not all about paying fortunes for players.
 
"It's important the players get along with each other – that makes team spirit. As much as they have got the money to bring players in, sometimes that doesn't work. If they [City] continue they will be a threat but there are no guarantees."

As a United 'legend' and lifelong fan, one would expect Becks to be a little partisan, but rarely does an ex-player indulge in such an outburst about a former rival. Perhaps the birth of his new daughter – whose middle name, Seven, was the number Beckham wore at Old Trafford – has reignited his loyalty.
 
Whatever the reason, Becks went on to praise United's Alex Ferguson as, surprise surprise, the "best manager in football".
 
"He continues to win year after year," Beckham said. "It's not all about spending loads of money. It's about having the right people at the club and in the team, and United always have that. I can't see Sir Alex stopping. He is a legend and I have so much respect. He was a father figure to me. He works hard at what he does. He is the best at what he does." ·