Pellegrini expects tough Cardiff test

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has warned his players to avoid complacency ahead of their trip to Cardiff City on Sunday.

Pellegrini’s side were in superb form in their Premier League opener against Newcastle last week, easing to a 4-0 win thanks to goals from David Silva, Sergio Aguero, Yaya Toure and Samir Nasri.

Next up for last season’s runners-up is a visit to top-flight new boys Cardiff, and the Chilean has urged his squad to make sure they keep the same level of performance against Malky Mackay’s men.

“We have a very difficult game on Sunday because Cardiff are playing their first home Premier League game,” the former Malaga manager said.

“We will not underestimate them because they are new to the division. They will be very tough opponents on their own pitch. We know we have to play our best to take the three points, but we will be focused and prepared for the challenge.”

Pellegrini went on to say it is unlikely any more players will depart the Etihad Stadium before the end of the transfer window after Scott Sinclair moved to West Brom on a season-long loan deal and Denis Suarez signed for Barcelona last week.

“I’m not certain but I doubt there will be any more players leaving,” he added.