Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has played down his comments about Samir Nasri after Arsene Wenger criticised his pursuit of the midfielder.

The Arsenal boss accused Mancini of breaking ‘the basic rules of football’ after the Italian publicly admitted an interest in the player.

However, Mancini was surprised by Wenger’s outburst and does not believe what he said was provocative.

“I said only that Nasri, [Sergio] Aguero are two good players and I said also that Nasri is under contract with Arsenal," he said. "I don't know why he's upset, but only this.

"Because the question was about some good players, I say that like this. I said also that Nasri is under contract with Arsenal, it's difficult. Only this."

It is thought that City are considering making a bid for the 24-year-old, whose contract expires at the end of next season.