Roberto Mancini: Europa League exit could benefit Manchester City

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini believes that a potential exit from the Europa League would bring its own benefits.

The Eastlands outfit lost 2-0 against Dinamo Kiev in the first leg in Ukraine, and the reverse fixture takes place on Thursday evening at the City of Manchester Stadium.

The Italian understands that a defeat would cut short the fixture pile-up and allow his charges to focus on doing justice to their quest on the domestic circuit.

However, the former Inter boss insists that his side will "play to win", hoping that his players can mount a comeback and progress further in the competition.

"It’s very difficult for me to think like this," Mancini said, according to The Times. 

"Before we play the game and after, we can understand what is best. But we should play to win and go into the quarters."

Mancini also voiced his best wishes for Manchester United legend Bryan Robson, after it was revealed that the Thailand boss is battling cancer.

He said: "Bryan is an important person and player in the history of Manchester United and England and I was very sad to hear the news of his illness.

"My thoughts and the wishes of everyone at Manchester City are with Bryan and his family. I am sure the determination he had as a player will shine through as he fights cancer."