Roberto Mancini has said that he is confident that Carlos Tevez will remain with Manchester City next season.

Following the Citizens’ 3-0 Premiership victory over Stoke last night, Mancini told reporters that recent conversations with Tevez had left the strong impression that the striker would still be at Eastlands next year.

“He told me before the Cup final he wants to stay,” the manager said. “We have spoken many times over the last 20 days and it is my opinion he will stay here.”

The 27-year-old, who is on a five-year contract with the club, submitted and then withdrew a transfer request in December. Having stated that the distance between Manchester and his children in Buenos Aires is a sticking point, the Argentinian has been reported to have his eye on a move to Spain or Italy.

“We have never had a problem since December,” Mancini continued. “I think everyone can change their opinion. I don’t think he will change his mind again next year because we will have a better squad, buy other big players and be in the Champions League.”

Tevez was responsible for two of last night’s goals, putting him on a par with Dimitar Berbatov for the season and in strong running for the Golden Boot.