Malaga’s manager Manuel Pellegrini has denied he has agreed a deal to replace Italian Roberto Mancini at the Etihad stadium as Manchester City manager.
The Chilean told Malaga’s website: “I categorically deny that I am the new Manchester City coach.”
After Manchester City’s shock FA Cup defeat to Wigan on Saturday, Mancini criticised City’s owner for not objecting to reports that a deal with the 59- year- old Malaga manager was in the works.
Mancini resumed training on Monday morning, ahead of Tuesday’s encounter with Reading. He made no comment as he arrived at Loftus Road, where City are based, following the FA Cup final.
Pellegrini further added in his statement that: “I had an agreement with Malaga not to talk to anyone and nothing has been agreed with any other outfit.
“Nothing has been signed and no agreement reached. I’ve been fortunate enough and very proud, that every year the big clubs are interested in me,” Pellegrini added.
“I hope the future of this club will become somewhat clearer in the next few days.”
Since Mancini took over from Mark Hughes in 2009, he has led City to two titles: the 2011 FA Cup and 2012 Premier League title.
In April, City officials met with Pellegrini’s agent Jesus Martinez who also incidentally represents Malaga midfielder Isco, a reported target for City.
Mancini has since been in the dark about the motive behind the meeting.
Pellegrini had had a spell with Real Madrid and Villareal before taking charge of Malaga in November 2010.
In his first full season in charge, he guided Malaga to fourth in La Liga and Champions League qualification for the first time.
Malaga who are currently sixth in the La Liga table were knocked out of the last eight stage of the Champions League this season by finalist Borussia Dortmund.
