Napoli's Paolo Cannavaro warns Manchester City ahead of Champions League opener

Napoli captain Paolo Cannavaro cannot wait to begin the club's Champions League campaign as it gets ready to face Manchester City next Wednesday.

"The city cannot wait for the Champions League and there is a lot of expectation from the fans and players," Cannavaro told UEFA.com.

The Italian club has gone from bankruptcy in 2004 and third division football to European hopefuls following a revolution led by president Aurelio De Laurentiis.

Cannavaro wants his side to rise to the occasion in England and surprise Roberto Mancini's star-studded squad.

"In the last two years we have really expressed what this club is about thanks to the coach and we have players who always want to do well," said Cannavaro. "[Walter] Mazzarri has given us so much, organisation, belief and responsibility. He has been brilliant."

Before its trip to England Napoli plays Cesena in Serie A.