Vieira: City should follow Barca model

Posted Sunday, November 13, 2011 by ESPN

Manchester City's sporting executive Patrick Vieira hailed that Barcelona's model and style of play and urged the club to emulate the Spanish giants.

Manchester City are revamping themselves with the cash that arrived with new owner Sheikh Mansour, with a new stadium already built and a new youth system plan going underway.

The club have had mixed fortunes in their first season in the Champions League, and Vieira has called for the fans to be patient as he believes that it may take a while before Manchester City are considered to be synonymous with Europe's elite.

Vieira was speaking to Barca TV: "You have to remember that City is a new club among the elite. In fact, this is the first time we've played in the Champions League,

"If we take the example of Barca, this team got where it is after many years among the elite and a youth policy means several years of patience. You can't invent a football philosophy in one or even five years, it takes time.

"But there can always be surprises in the Champions League, and it could be City this year. We have a quality team and a wonderful spirit."

The former player also hailed Barcelona's model which allowed them to compete at the top level for years while producing youth talent which are the envy of most clubs.

He continued: "It is no secret that Barca is an example of a successful youth system.

"When you see a team win the Champions League with six or seven of its youth players in the side, you know they're doing the right job. It is an example Manchester City should follow."