Manchester City: Lionel Messi Tips Sergio Aguero To Shine

Sergio Aguero has been tipped to shine at Manchester City by the best player on the planet.

The Argentine striker moved to City this summer in a £35 million switch from Atletico Madrid.

National team pal and Barcelona star Lionel Messi believes Roberto Mancini's men now have a player that can see them challenge for a host of silverware both at home and in Europe.

Messi said, "I have no doubt that he will be successful at City. He will give them a real cutting edge. He's unique—he has immense power, strength and an incredible work ethic. He will certainly stand out in terms of what he will bring to City.

"Defenders will find him so difficult to play against. There is no doubt in my mind that City have signed a very exceptional player."

Aguero is expected to be on the bench tomorrow for City's season opener at home to Swansea.

Messi has no fears the 23-year-old will be able to adapt quickly to the physical nature of the Premier League.

He added, "Aguero is flexible and can play in a number of positions. Adapting to the pace of the Premier League won't be a problem. Carlos Tevez has been a huge success in England and Aguero will be no different.

"I think it shows the serious intent of Manchester City when they are signing a player of his quality. Personally, I would have loved to have seen him stay in Spain and preferably move to Barcelona.

"But he was excited by the challenge and ambition of City. Money isn't a motivating factor for him. He loves a challenge.

"More importantly, he wants to win trophies and obviously feels the move offers him that opportunity in ­England."

Aguero has been the only big-money signing made by City in this transfer window in order to add firepower to its already world-class strike force consisting of Carlos Tevez, Mario Balotelli and Edin Dzeko.

Aguero, during his time at Atletico Madrid, has scored at an average of 20 goals and 10 assists each season and City manager Roberto Mancini will expect Aguero to continue his good work up front.