Vieira Signs: Six Month Deal with Option of Twelve More

It was confirmed earlier that Roberto Mancini has completed his first signing as manager of City, the French midfielder Patrick Vieira. Vieira has signed on a six month deal, with the option of another twelve months. In an article on the official site, Vieira says

"When I look at the players City have got, I think we can achieve a lot. I strongly believe we are not out of the race to win the title but we need to believe the club can do it, because we can."

Speaking about the singing, Mancini said

"Patrick is one of the great players of his era with every almost every honour in the game against his name. I am sure City fans will welcome him warmly and appreciate the contribution he will make."

This is an interesting signing, but by no means a bad one. With the injuries ravaging our squad, all areas are looking thin. Whilst I am not sure how many games he will be starting, having a player with the pedigree of Vieira in the squad is surely an asset. Im glad that Mancini's first major act as City boss wasn't to launch a raid on one the continents high flyers (need we be reminded of the Eto'o foul up over the summer). This is a sensible signing to boost the depth in the midfield. Having won the world cup with France in '98, and a variety of other trophies, Vieira is also very experienced, something perhaps lacking in the middle of the park for City. I have no doubt that this experience and leadership will be beneficial to the club.

Vieira, who will wear the number 24 shirt, is a doubt for Monday's visit of Blackburn with an injury sustained during his final match for Inter earlier in the week.