It’s 'Mad Dog’ Tevez’s destiny to score winner against United

In February this year, it emerged that Carlos Tevez, without a shred of doubt, felt that his manager at Manchester City, Roberto Mancini treated him like a dog .

The Argentinean striker said that in an TV interview in his homeland just before flying back to join Manchester City. It left almost no scope for ‘misunderstanding’ which was earlier blamed for the bust-up. It was clear – the hate was there for all to see and it was mutual.

Cut to Sunday. Change was in the air.

Close title chases have a way of mending mindsets like few other things. Mancini, with unbelievable nonchalance, said: “I think Carlos is destined to score the most important goal in the history of this club. This is my belief.

“And if we beat United to the title, it would be the biggest achievement of my career because it is England, it is the best championship in Europe.”

All the hate had vanished as soon as the vision of silverware appeared. Of course, it also helps that Tevez has a terrific work-rate and the tenacity of a hound. It makes it easier for the manager to forgive. Handling ‘tough’ personalities comes as part of the manager territory but even in that school, Tevez would be near the top.

“I thought it was the time for Carlos to play anyway.” Mancini said. “But remember we also played well with Mario (Balotelli) in the team. The problem with Mario is that he can get a red card at any moment on the pitch, in the tunnel or even in the dressing room!”

If asked to choose the maddest one between Tevez and Mario, there can be no doubting that the latter is a clear winner. And perhaps that is why Mancini appreciates the certainty that Tevez brings for Man City. The Argentinean even told Manchester Evening News that he wants to “stay here as long as it takes to make the project a success.”

“Carlos coming back into the team has given everyone a buzz,” said team-mate Joleon Lescott said in the Daily Mail. “He relishes every game but this being United, his old club, he’ll look forward to it more than other games.”

And when Tevez is motivated he can create some wonderful goals. For the past 2-3 weeks Mancini has been playing the underdog card. There have been times when he’s said that the title race is as good as over. But now it’s close, so close that a win tonight could see City steal the title from under United’s nose. And that will be pretty special – for the players, the manager, the owners and everyone else involved.

“If we win the title,” said Mancini. “There can be no debate about who is the No 1 team in Manchester for this year at least.”