Adiós, Carlos.



You were good in your time, and we thank you. But now you've joined enemy ranks. Pity. And what's all this about the new and improved City? I've heard it for years, and still don't buy it.

Here's what it boils down to: the Madrid like scavenger hunt for talent at Eastlands should make the Europa race more interesting. If nothing else it will turn the Manchester derby into a watchable, hype-worthy event (at least this year, next year City could be relegated - it happens now and again).

I predict the Stretford end (and upper north - a noisy lot) won't initially give stick to Tevez. But once he's starts flapping his soup coolers and flailing his arms in a post-goal frenzy, they'll be on him like white on rice. As for Terry big boots, he's just pitting baby blue against evil blue until his trousers burst with coin. But I do see Adabyour waving au revoir to Arsenal for the much sought-after mid-table mess he'll ultimately bitch about.

All this overspending never amounts to much. Remember when Chelsea went on a cash-spending rampage five or six years ago? OK, bad example. But remember City did spend like a drunken sheik last year and played yo-yo all season. Of course this year they sit hoof-to-snout with Madrid, trying to cruise the blackjack dealer with the promise of a huge tip once they fold. What both sides fail to see in the rear view are their ever-mindful league mates. Yes, matches will be played, lost, and I predict, often tied.

A few things to remember: Mark Hughes will always be a RED.
And City will always be City.