Chelsea made a storming start to the defense of their title, securing five consecutive wins. They are four points clear of nearest challengers Arsenal.

City, who are aiming high after spending big in the close season to strengthen their squad, collected eight points from five games.

They will face Chelsea at home in Saturday's early kick off.

"Chelsea are the best team in the Premier League at the moment," Italian manager Mancini told the pre-match news conference.

"They are probably going to win the Premier League title easily. They are a strong team who have been playing together for many years.

"They have a fantastic manager and they have worked to reach this situation."

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti played down his compatriot's suggestion, saying that City are also capable of winning the elite competition.

"City has a possibility to win the title. They didn't start so well this Premier League but they have a possibility. They have to come back to first place in the table.

Former AC Milan boss Ancelotti led Chelsea to the domestic double in his first season in charge last term.