Patrick Vieira believes Manchester City are still 'learning' to play in the UEFA Champions League and need time to adapt to the European stage.
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This, as the Premier League champions face a second successive group stage exit from the competition with them still winless after four matches.
With the wealth of talent at Roberto Mancini's disposal at Eastlands, many feel the Italian tactician shouldn't have problem progressing further in Europe.
Vieira, however, reckons City are relatively new to the continent's premier club tournament and patience is required as they gain the experience needed to succeed.
"I think people are really demanding but Champions League is a different level," said the former France midfielder.
"The Champions League, it's not just (about) players - it's about a football club and how you grow up.
"It is new for us. We're learning and I believe we're going to get better. But it will take time."
The Citizens still hold a slim chance of qualifying for the last 16, but will need to defeat Borussia Dortmund away, as well as beat Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium.
"I believe that when the door is still open, however small it is, there is always going to be a chance," Vieira added.
"Of course we didn't help ourselves, didn't make ourselves any favours but the door is not completely closed.
"So it is going to be difficult and of course not so many people will believe that we can go through.
"But the door is not closed. It is still open and we have to believe after what happened last year and the goals we've scored in the last minute of games, that gives us hope.
"And if not, you have to play for the third place and play for (qualification to) the Europa League."
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