Most of our defence is what we had during Mark Hughes' time as manager. Now whilst some of those players are very good, you have to admit that a number of them are definitely upgradeable. They were good players when we were trying to get amongst the elite, but they just don't cut it amongst the elite even in the Prem. How many of our defenders can be claimed to be the best in their positions in the Prem? Probably only the injury-prone Kompany, and Nastasic as the best young prospect.
Our defence has been neglected whilst we have improved midfield and strikers, and it needs attention, or we will achieve similar to last season. Clichy is an OK defender, but does he provide the attacking threat of Baines, Evra or Cole? Like him or not, Rafael had a better record going forward than Zaba last season. Chelsea and United may have some ageing CBs, but their experience counts for a lot, especially when they have younger players around them.
Cardiff have now established the blueprint for how to play against City, and it may be too late to change anything this season. I hope not.