ENGLAND: Pellegrini confirmed as new City manager

Manchester City has finally announced the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini as their new first team manager. His appointment had been widely expected for weeks with Pellegrini saying last month he had a verbal agreement.

The 59-year-old, Pellegrini joins the club on a three year contract and will take up the role from 24th June. He takes over from Italian Roberto Mancini who was dismissed last month.

Pellegrini helped Malaga qualify for the Champions League during the 2011/12 season and led them to the quarter-finals of the competition last season. He managed in South America before joining Spanish side Villarreal in 2004 and then Real Madrid in 2009.

Reacting to his appointment Pellegrini talked to City’s official website: “I am delighted to accept this hugely exciting opportunity. The Club has a clear vision for success both on and off the pitch and I am committed to making a significant contribution. Everything is in place for Manchester City to continue to be successful and I am excited to be able to work with such a talented squad, the Executive team and the Board to deliver for fans who are renowned for their steadfast support.”

Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak added: “Manuel is a hugely experienced and successful manager with a proven track record. Throughout the selection process by his philosophy, his attitude and his commitment to the long term development of Manchester City. I am delighted that he has joined us.”

The Chilean will bring three of his backroom staff with him from Malaga to Manchester. Long standing right-hand man Ruben Cousillas from Argentina will be Pellegrini’s assistant and joining them will be goalkeeping coach Xabier Mancisidor and fitness coach Jose Cabello. Brian Kidd, who moved from Manchester City’s academy into the first team management team when Mancini was appointed, will remain as part of the management team as one of Pellegrini’s assistants.

This will be exciting news for City fans after yesterday’s signing of Jesus Navas as their second summer arrival. The deal is understood to be worth an initial £14.9m, to acquire the 27-year-old winger from Spanish club Sevilla on a four-year contract. The Navas capture follows that of Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho from Shakhtar Donetsk last week, taking the club’s close season outlay near to £45m.

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