Samir Nasri: 'Bayern Munich a force to be reckoned with'

Manchester City midfielder Samir Nasri has declared that tonight's clash with Bayern Munich will provide the perfect platform to see where his side's European ambitions stand.

Manuel Pellegrini's men will take on the Champions League holders at the Etihad this evening, looking to build on a 3-0 win over Viktoria Plzen in their opening group game.

Nasri believes that City have an opportunity to prove that they are serious about changing their fortunes in Europe with a strong showing against Bayern, but admits that they face a stern test against Pep Guardiola's men.

He told the Bundesliga's official website: "They're defending champions. In the last four years, they've played in three finals. That's extraordinary.

"They're a force to be reckoned with yet again this season. This game is an opportunity for us to see where we're at. Whoever wins this one will certainly have a psychological advantage during the rest of the group campaign.

"For us it's about showing that we mean business this season. We still have to get used to the new coach. We've got a fantastic squad, with two or three players in each position. That's why I'm convinced we'll soon string together a winning run."

City's form has been patchy so far this season, with just one point to show from three away games in the Premier League.