However, he has started only 11 league matches and is viewed as one of the players whose position may be under threat in a summer clear-out at City if, as looks increasingly likely, they cannot catch Chelsea to retain their title.

Kolarov, a £16m signing from Lazio in 2010, has been impressed by the job Serbian compatriot Sinisa Mihajlovic has done at Sampdoria, who are currently third in Serie A.

“I’d like to return to Italy, but it’s difficult,” he told Sky Italia.

“I’m happy for Mihajlovic; he’s doing very well, as are Lazio.

“They’re having a great season and I hope they can end it in third or even second place.”

Kolarov is contracted with City until 2017 having signed a new deal last summer after a good campaign.

He felt that showed the club had long-term faith in him but he has been less impressive this season, in line with the team’s performances, which have fuelled debate about his future.

“Last season I played a lot and I think I proved to people in the club that they can believe in me and the result was that I was offered a new contract and I was happy to sign,” he added.