The players of Manchester City have been ordered to prepare for their FA Cup quarter-final clash with Barnsley as if they were facing Cristiano Ronaldo and co.
The Etihad boss is determined to ensure his players, who are 2.75 to lift the trophy, have the right focus when they host the Tykes later this evening.
And with Wembley now just one step away, the Italian is well aware Barnsley will be extra motivated to punch well above their weight. City are 12.00 to win 3-1, while a goalless draw can be backed at 26.00.
Dropping points in the Premier League this season to the likes of struggling teams such as West Ham United, Southampton and Queens Park Rangers, have certainly dented City's title defence.
Mancini insists: "While it is clear that Barnsley are not Real Madrid, these games are very difficult because they don't have anything to lose and everyone just thinks it will be easy.
"I don't think many people thought Arsenal could go out in a game against Bradford.
"The FA Cup is important for this season but every game you play from any team from the Championship is difficult."
Mancini is set to remain faithful in this competition to Romanian goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon at the expense of Joe Hart.
Defender Joleon Lescott could also come in for Majita Nastasic as Mancini tries to keep his players fresh ahead of a crucial league trip to Everton next weekend.
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