Joe Hart says the Champions League experience running through the Manchester City squad ensures they won’t be daunted by their first adventure into Europe’s premier competition.
Manchester City, who host Italian outfit Napoli in their opening game at the Etihad Stadium tonight, have been tipped by many as potential rivals to Barcelona’s crown.
This all comes despite the mega-rich club also due to face Germany’s four-times European champions Bayern Munich and Spanish side Villarrael in what has been dubbed the group of death.
But England goalkeeper Hart says Roberto Mancini’s expensively-assembled squad can cope with the demands at the step up in quality.
The likes of Yaya Toure, who won the competition with Barcelona, and Sergio Aguero and Samir Nasri are seasoned campaigners at this level and that will stand them in good stead when it matters most, according to Hart.
“It’s vital we have got players who have been there and even done it in the Champions League,” said 24-year-old Hart.
“There’s no doubt it’s going to be a step up in class, but the fact many of the squad have proven themselves at this standard helps.
“It gives us great confidence.
“Most of us have played international football also, but we are stepping into the unknown.
“As a club, we’re looking forward to it.
“It’s something we have been striving for. There is a belief we can do well and we won’t be fearing anyone.”
Hart believes home advantage first up, against another tournament debutant in Napoli, could ease Manchester City gently into unknown territory.
“We know Napoli are a strong side, just like the rest of the teams in the group, but being home first up is an advantage,” said Hart.
“We will feel comfortable in the surroundings and want to get off to a good start. We are ready for them and you can’t get any better than winning in Europe.
“Some of my closest friends in the England team have played in the Champions League, so it’s big thing to be finally there.
“I know when the Champions League music starts, I’ll be humming along.”
Mancini has put his players on alert after claiming Napoli boast firepower to rival his in-form side, who have already scored 15 goals in four successive Premier League wins.
“Napoli are a good team. They play good football, they have a good group of players, and they have fantastic supporters. This game will be very hard for us.
“I like Edinson Cavani. He is a fantastic striker who works for the team.
“But they also have Ezequiel Lavezzi, Goran Pandev and Marek Hamsik – and those players are very dangerous.”