JO: CITY WILL WIN THE LEAGUE

Jo - excited by City potential.

Brazilian striker Jo is confident Manchester City will win the Premier League, but accepts a title challenge this season may be 'a little bit early'.

Jo was among a clutch of big-money arrivals at City over the summer, with the club also now the richest in the world after the Abu Dhabi United Group's takeover.

Breaking the stranglehold of the 'big four' on the Premier League is a target for the owners and Jo believes it is a realistic aim for City.

"It's an exciting time to be playing for the club - the signing of Robinho has made it clear to all of Europe this club will compete with the best," Jo told ZOO magazine.

"Our new owners have made it obvious what they want to build here.

"We have to look at a Champions League place first and then go from there. This club will win the Premier League.

"The owners have already set that target, but I think to win it this season might be a little bit early."

City are still searching for consistency under Mark Hughes, but have shown flashes of brilliance, most notably in the 6-0 thrashing of Portsmouth last month.

Jo added: "The 6-0 win over Portsmouth saw beautiful football all over the pitch - not just from the attacking players.

"I hope we can bring the spirit of samba to Man City! That's what our fans want to see.

"Many players at Man City can play beautiful football and they've already shown that.

"It's fun to watch when we play in this way, but we also understand that the Premier League is a tough competition and sometimes we can't play as prettily and will need to adapt our style."