As October began, all City staff who had been suspended returned to the sidelines, directing their team at Maine Road Stadium. Nearly 25,000 Cityzens supporters flooded the venue, warmly welcoming back the team as Maine Road prepared to host a Champions League match.
Mourinho entered the stadium, raising both hands above his head in appreciation of the fans' enthusiasm after his brief absence.
As usual, O'Neill motivated the team, and he handled the tactics.
Ronaldo and Okocha, who had been injured previously, were making progress in training but were not yet ready to play.
Today, they faced the Russian champions, Spartak Moscow. With the difference in strength between the two teams apparent and playing at home, Mourinho opted not to field City's strongest lineup, instead choosing younger players.
John Terry and Ronaldinho.
