Vieira relishing City's European challenge

Manchester City FC's football development executive Patrick Vieira told UEFA.com he is relishing the prospect of tackling Europe's finest as the English club prepare for their opening UEFA Champions League Group D game against Real Madrid CF.

The Premier League champions made their debut in the competition last season and, despite being drawn this time in a star-studded section alongside the Merengues, AFC Ajax and Borussia Dortmund, the former French international and 1998 FIFA World Cup winner believes City's players should enjoy the challenge.

"The club is working so hard to compete against the best clubs in Europe," said former Arsenal FC and FC Internazionale Milano midfielder Vieira. "Every single player loves playing in the Champions League and as a club it is a mark of being up there with the best. It is a fantastic experience for the club, not just on the pitch but off it as well.

"It was exciting last year and when you have a good taste of something you want to go back again so it is really good to be involved again. When you have been really successful it gives you confidence and when you have the confidence you play with freedom and when you play with freedom that is when you play your best football."

To watch the full interview, click play in the video box above.