Manuel Pellegrini promises ‘offensive play’ at City

Manuel Pellegrini has been appointed Manchester City manager with a clear instruction to win trophies and produce better football.

City yesterday finally confirmed the arrival of the Chilean as replacement for the sacked Roberto Mancini. The 59-year-old has signed a three-year deal at the Etihad Stadium after leaving Spanish club Malaga.

Mancini paid the price for the club’s regression after winning the Barclays Premier League in 2012 and the club see Pellegrini as the man to deliver improved style and substance.

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Pellegrini said: “Everyone knows if you arrive at a club like Manchester City you need to win titles. I think Manchester City have invested a lot of money to improve the squad every year and try, every year, to win titles.

“They were not successful in winning some titles but I am sure we are going to win – maybe the Premier League, the Champions League. We will try to win a lot.

“My first message is to tell all the supporters they will enjoy the season. I am sure they will enjoy the way our team will play. We will play an attractive, offensive play.”

Pellegrini’s appointment has been widely expected since Mancini was sacked a month ago, with speculation linking him with the club beginning even before the Italian’s departure.

Confirmation was anticipated soon after his final game with Malaga on 1 June. Now after a delay, reportedly linked to the terms of his exit from the Spanish club, it has been announced he will officially begin work at City on 24 June.

Pellegrini, who has more than 25 years of managerial experience in South America and Spain, has taken both Malaga and Villarreal to the latter stages of the Champions League.

He spent a single season in charge of giants Real Madrid and is renowned for his man-management ability, an area the club had concerns about under Mancini.

Mancini’s assistant manager Brian Kidd, who took caretaker charge last month, will remain as part of the set-up.

Kidd said: “I am pleased. It is compliment and a great honour that I am stopping with the club.

“I am very pleased that Mr Pellegrini wants me to stay.”

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