Roberto Mancini has reiterated his belief that Manchester City need to strengthen their squad if they want to challenge for the Premier League title again.
The Italian has become frustrated at his lack of activity in the transfer market this summer, notably the failure to sign Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie.
But after hitting out at City chiefs earlier in the week he has cooled his stance slightly and admitted that he hopes to have some signings sealed in the next fortnight.
"We did well last year,” Mancini said. “This year will be harder because when you win, the problem is to win again.
"For this reason I think that we need to improve our team with maybe some new players. I'm sure that maybe in the next two weeks we can do something about new players.
"We are talking to some players, but the market is not easy. It's difficult, and for this reason we need more time."