Despite a general air of negativity that has attached itself to City for much of the season, the Blues head into the eagerly-anticipated FA Cup semi-final still on track to match pre-season expectations.
Mancini is supremely confident about securing the top-four finish in the Barclays Premier League demanded by super-rich owner Sheikh Mansour, while an end to that much-debated 35-year trophy drought is still in reach.
Mancini said: "I have respect for Manchester United because they have won everything for many years.
"To begin with, they won a single trophy after a long time with nothing. Now we are in the same position.
"We can go on to do what United have done. We have a chance tomorrow and for this we should be happy."
Source: PA
Source: PA