The Greek striker played 65 times for City between 2006 and 2008, scoring 12 goals before moving on to Celtic.
Instantly recognisable for his long, dark hair and languid style, Samaras became something of a cult figure for City fans while in Manchester.
Speaking on our Matchday Live show before Tuesday’s Champions League clash with AEK Athens, Samaras says he enjoyed his time at City and that he could tell we were destined for big things.
“I had a great time at the Club. A great group of players when I joined, big legends like David James, Richard Dunne,” he began.
“Great personalities and a great changing room. I was in a period at City in three years where we had three ownerships.
“I was young and had ambitions so I had to move. You could see it was a huge project building at the club and here we are now.”
Since leaving, the forward has watched us from afar and enjoyed the overwhelming success the club have had.
And now, Samaras is impressed with what he’s seen from Enzo Maresca’s side this term.
“The numbers do the talking, seven games and seven wins in the league,” said Samaras.
“It is very important for the manager and the players that Maresca is close to Pep Guardiola, because the style and tactics are very similar. So the adapting was very easy and you see the results.”
Samaras also has a close connection with City’s Director of Football Hugo Viana and is delighted to see how our man is doing in his role.
“Before my TV career I was back home in Crete and I was helping my team there and Hugo was the Sporting Director with Sporting,” he said.
“So we had lots of talks to make loans to my team. He’s a great guy with a good sense of football and recruiting players. He’s doing really, really well.”
Samaras’ interview came as part of our usual City-centric Matchday Live show.
We have analysis, features and fun with experts and guests before and after every single men’s match, with radio commentary available for CITY+ subscribers or a free WatchAlong during the game.
City v Brighton: £20 for adults and £1 for U18s
Tickets are now on sale for our Carabao Cup fourth round meeting with Brighton.
We host Fabian Hurzeler’s side at 19:30 (UK) on Wednesday 28 October.
Tickets for adults start from just £20, with all U18s only £1 – and you can also buy up to six tickets per person.
Taking place during half term school holidays too, it’s the perfect time to experience a night under the Etihad lights for all the family!
And there will be so much to do beforehand, with a Kids Fanzone just over the road at the City Football Academy ahead of kick-off.
Meanwhile, hospitality is available from just £100 with a range of packages on offer to suit your needs, whether a special occasion for a loved one or for something professional.
Book your place at the Seagulls encounter below.
