Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho believes that it is only a matter of time before Manchester City get their hands on the Champions League trophy.

Roberto Mancini's side travel to Los Blancos tomorrow night for their opening group-stage fixture in Europe's elite competition.

With City having won the Premier League title last season, and the FA Cup prior to that, Mourinho feels that they are a side that are getting better and better.

The Portuguese tactician has predicted that Champions League glory will soon follow their domestic success, should they continue to develop at their current rate.

He said: "I don't know if it is this season or next season with Roberto, or with another person in the future, but normally in the direction the club is going, sooner or later they will win the big cup."

Madrid and City are joined by Dutch title holders Ajax and Bundesliga winners Borussia Dortmund in the competition's 'group of champions'.