Manchester City vs. Napoli: Complete Preview, Start Time and Schedule

Manchester City looks like they have improved from the club that finished third in the Champions League last campaign. They are poised for a big win against Napoli that will prove they are a legitimate threat to contend for the title.

Napoli is also improved this year, so this match will be no easy test.

Both of these clubs have taken steps forward this year.

City made a return to the continent's premier club competition for the first time since 1968-69. While Napoli jumped to Serie A for the first time in 21 years.

Both teams are off to sizzling starts in their league. City has won their first four Premier League matches. Edin Dzeko, Kun Aguero, Samir Nasri and David Silva are playing brilliantly together. They make this an impressive Man City attack. 

Ezequiel Lavezzi and Edinson Cavani form a dangerous duo for Napoli, but City has the weapons to neutralize them.

Napoli does not enjoy the same power to slow down City's attack. Despite their brilliant start, there were some real defensive concerns that popped up in their match against Cesena.

Napoli won that match 3-1, but Cesena was able to consistently break down Napoli's defense. Cesena has far less firepower than Man City.

The increased expectations have turned up the pressure on Manchester City to perform. However, this is an experienced group that is prepared to handle the pressure. They also know they can't take an opponent as skilled as Napoli lightly.

Here is Manchester City's manager Roberto Mancini on the subject, as quoted on BBC.co.uk:

"

"Several of their players have been capped for their national teams and [Walter] Mazzarri is a very experienced manager. I expect Napoli to be a challenge but a lot of our players have played in the Champions League and I don't think they will feel pressure for this game."

"

With City dialed in and focused on this match, I expect a 3-1 win.