Former Malaga manager Manuel ‘the engineer’ Pellegrini has been confirmed as the new Manchester City Boss after signing a three-year contract.
The Santiago-born Chilean replaces Roberto di Mateo who was sacked by the club in May, due to a trophyless campaign.
“Roberto did a great job here in Manchester especially to win the title after so many years,” the new City manager Pellegrini said. “We now start a new cycle.”
Pellegrini has managed clubs such as Villareal, Real Madrid, Malaga and was in charge of a couple of teams in the South American leagues, including River Plate, before moving to Europe.
“I am delighted to accept this hugely exciting opportunity,” the 59-year-old former Universidad de Chile footballer said.
“The club has a clear vision for success both on and off the pitch and I am committed to making a significant contribution.”
Pellegrini qualified Malaga for the Champions League during the 2011/2012 season and led them to the quarter-final stage of the competition where they lost to finalists Dortmund.
At Villareal, he qualified for the Champions League three times and reached the semi-final in 2005/2006 season, only to be dropped by Arsenal.
According to the parcentage of points gained, Pellegrini is the second most successful South American club manager in Europe within the last 25 years, coming after Vanderlei Luxemburgo.
He will be looking forward to leasing out a new life at the blue half of Manchester, with new recruits Jesus Navas and Fernandinho already rearing to go.
“I’m sure we have the best squad in the Premier League, wonderful players and can reach more titles in the next three or four years in Manchester,” Pellegini added.
City will aim to wrestle the Premier League title back from their neighbours Manchester United next season, but that depends on the understanding of the English style of football by their new manager.
