A penny for Mario Balotelli's thoughts.

The ex-Man City striker was on hand to witness his former team come out second best against his new club Liverpool in an early title clash.

But what does the 3 - 1 result tell us beyond the fact that City look formidable and a step above this Reds side?

Gabriele Marcotti joined us on the line tonight and he believes Manuel Pellegrini's team stepped up a gear as a unit.

"I think what we're seeing here is the intangible quality of a more mature team. Perhaps a team that is more of a unit, a team that can pick their spots and are more experienced," he said.

Marcotti also praised the two-goal performance of Stevan Jovetic whose City career thus far has been plagued by injury.

"He has the intelligence to be alert and quick. I think Pellegrini's done a good job in keeping him involved," he said, also explaining why he thinks Jovetic can play up front with Sergio Aguero.

As for more midfield quality is needed for Liverpool and described the Reds as a "big piece of clay that Rodgers still has to mould." 

Marcotti also seemed fairly positive about Mario Balotelli's arrival and thinks he gives Brendan Rodgers a number of tactical options to play with.