LONDON, September 9-Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko believes that Chelsea will pose the biggest obstacle in the Citizens’ efforts to retain their Premier League title, but concedes that a number of teams could be in the running.
The Blues are many pundits’ favourites to claim top-flight glory this season, with the addition of Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas only enhancing an already powerful squad.
Dzeko is well aware of the threat that Jose Mourinho’s side carry, as City look to claim their third title in four seasons.
“It will be difficult, but I’m an optimist,” the striker told City’s official website of their title bid.
“As with every season, there are several teams that will battle for the title of champions in England.
“This season Chelsea might be the most serious challenger, but we mustn’t ignore Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal, or United, who will certainly be much stronger than last year.
“After all, everyone has gotten stronger, and everyone wants to be first.
“The past season was one of the best in my career, and in the end we reached the title of champions of England, the second in the past three seasons.
“We succeeded in winning the Capital One Cup and I am really happy how everything played out in the past season, both for the club and for myself.”
Prior to last season the 28-year-old recently put pen to a new long-term contract with the club, and admits that he’s very happy at the Etihad.
“As far as the contract, in general I had no dilemma around an extension,” he explained.
“I am happy at City, the manager believes in me, which is certainly important, and I give my all on the pitch and altogether it means quite a lot to me, because Manchester is a club with great ambitions and I easily decided to stay put.”