London, Dec. 21 (ANI): Manchester City’s new Italian coach Roberto Mancini has demanded showdown talks with Brazilian star Robinho and hopes to discover if the 32.5 million pound football player still has the desire to fire Manchester City all the way to the Champions League.

New boss Mancini, 45, faces a daunting task to overcome the spectre of Mark Hughes’ shabby dismissal, fulfil his employers’ demands for instant success and win over City’s cynical fans.

According to The Sun, the former Inter chief sees Robinho as the key to a quick push towards a top-four finish.

A source close to Mancini said: “Roberto wants a meeting with Robinho because his desire is to convert Robinho into City’s new leader.

“It never quite worked under Hughes but Roberto is a great admirer of Robinho and thinks he could be so influential, notwithstanding who else arrives in January.

“He expects to buy two new midfielders and two defenders - but no attackers. The weakness is in defence, not attack.”

The early signs from Robinho, 25, have been encouraging since Mancini’s appointment following Hughes’ sacking on Saturday.

Last night, he said: “I want to talk with Mancini. I’ve heard good news about his work and City still have plenty of time to finish the season well. The decision for Hughes to go was down to the owners but it did not come as a surprise after all the rumours.” (ANI)