Manchester City facing Barcelona's "worst side in many, many years" claims Jose Mourinho

'I can see City winning!' Mourinho's not impressed by the current Barcelona team

Former Real Madrid boss explains why he reckons Manuel Pellegrini's side have a chance of beating the Spanish giants in the Champions League's last 16

Jose Mourinho has rubbish the Barcelona side about to face Manchester City as the Nou Camp giants' worst "for many, many years."

Chelsea boss Mourinho gives City a chance of overcoming the Spanish superpower in their Champions League last-16 tie, which begins at the Etihad on Tuesday night, and sided with Premier League title rival Manuel Pellegrini.

Mourinho, a former member of Barca's coaching staff and ex-boss of their bitter rivals Real Madrid, said in an interview with ITV: "Of course, by history, Barcelona is the favourite, but this Barcelona, this season, is showing that it is not the same in previous years.

"Of course they have Messi, he is special, and they have more than him.

"But I think this is the worst Barcelona of many, many years - so City have a chance."

Barcelona are top of La Liga, albeit only on goal difference, and into the final of Spain's Copa del Rey.

Manchester City vs Barcelona: Probable teams

MANCHESTER CITY (4-2-3-1)

Joe Hart Over wobble earlier in season but cannot afford any lapses in concentration.

Pablo Zabaleta Likes to push forward but will need to be disciplined defensively and leave no gaps.

Vincent Kompany Had injuries this season but City are a different side with him at the back.

Martin Demichelis Preferred central defensive partner for Kompany but ponderous at times.

Alexsandar Kolarov Likely to get the nod over Clichy. Powerful, uncompromising, fierce left foot.

Fernandinho His return is huge for City. Provides security and bite in central midfield.

Yaya Toure Likes to go forward, but may have to curb attacking instincts against Barca.

Samir Nasri Made comeback at weekend. Can unlock defences with his guile and movement.

Jesus Navas His pace could be key to pressuring Barca down the flanks. Can stretch teams.

David Silva City will look to their diminutive playmaker to open up Barca's suspect defence.

Alvaro Negredo Nicknamed 'The Beast', he must be at his aggressive best in the absence of Auguero.

BARCELONA (4-3-3)

Victor Valdes Experienced keeper who is now in his final season at Barcelona.

Dani Alves Tough full-back who likes to push forward at every chance.

Gerard Pique Lack of pace is an issue but remains a formidable centre-half at his best.

Carles Puyol A warrior-like skipper, although injuries have taken their toll on him.

Adriano Reliable. Played all but one of Barca’s Champions League games this term.

Xavi Still a key man for Barca at 34. Makes the side tick in midfield.

Sergio Busquets Tough-tackling holding midfielder who allows others to flourish.

Andres Iniesta Steeped in the Barca tradition, a pass-master with superb vision and guile.

Cesc Fabregas Former Arsenal man has flourished after a tough start at Barca.

Lionel Messi Peerless figure who can destroy teams single-handedly when he is at his best.

Pedro Underrated player but rarely lets Barca down. Likely to play instead of Neymar.