Zabaleta hails Mangala signing

Manchester City right-back Pablo Zabaleta has praised the Citizens’ signing of Eliaquim Mangala and feels that the defender will succeed in proving his mettle for Manuel Pellegrini’s side.

The French international joined the Etihad Stadium outfit on a five-year contract for a reported fee of £32 million form Portuguese club Porto yesterday.

And Zabaleta, who has captained the Sky Blues on a number of occasions, insists that the 23-year-old will be a good addition to the squad for the reigning Premier League champions.

“He’s only 23, I can’t believe it but sometimes this is what you need for a centre-back in the Premier League”, the Argentine international told Sky Sports.

“He’s physically strong; he’s really good in the air. He’s also good technically so he looks a very good player”, the 29-year-old added.

Mangala began his club career with Belgian outfit Standard Liege in 2008 before he moved in with the Dragons in 2011, making 92 appearances in his three seasons with the Primeira Liga side.

Though he will be competing with Martin Demichelis and skipper Vincent Kompany for a place in Manchester City’s starting line-up, Mangala will be hoping to play a key role for the English club this season as they start their campaign with the first game against Newcastle United on 17th August.