Thinking about moving to Manchester soon. Advices needed!!!

Hello people,

I am considering in moving to Manchester from Italy with the hope to start a professional life career in IT, and maybe doing some uni in the future. I will also consider any other options for the beginning, such as a job in hospitality or anything else that comes along.
I wouldn't mind to have to shovel cement for the very beginning, as long as I make some cash.

I was pretty convinced with going to Manchester straight up, but than somebody confused me, saying that Manchester is facing a very tough recession recently and moving there to find a job is going to be a lost mission.

So I decided to come here and ask you guys if the job situation in Manchester is really that bad at the moment, and what I should do..

Also, if anybody feels to give a personal opinion about other cities in UK, which city do you think would be suitable for a foreign guy that needs to stay cheap, to get a job, rely on a good transport system, but also have the benefit of a good nightlife and the opportunity to live in a city full of great and brighting people?

Thanks