One of the worst kept secrets in the football world was made official today, as Manchester City have announced that Manuel Pellegrini will be taking over their bench. Pellegrini coached last season for Spanish club Malaga.
Pellegrini released the following statement on his appointment:
“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 said:
“Manuel is a hugely experienced and successful manager with a proven track record. We have been greatly impressed 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.”
Pellegrini takes over the post from the fired Roberto Mancini. Mancini was the club’s most successful manager in recent history, leading City to the FA Cup in 2011, and the Premier League Crown in 2012. However a trophyless campaign in 2013 that saw the team eliminated early in the Champions League, lose in the FA Cup Final, and finish second in the premiership had City ownership looking for a new man to take over.
Pellegrini has 25 years of coaching including his last nine years which he has spent with Real Madrid, Villareal, and Malaga. The Chilean born manager began his career behind the bench of Universad Chile, a team in Chile’s second division at the time, in 1987 and has slowly risen the managerial ranks over the years, before being given control of some of the biggest clubs in Spain and now England.
Don’t forget to follow our footy department – @RoryHarbaugh and @TonyNYGooner. Give the site a follow while you’re at it – @LastWordOnSports.
Feel free to discuss this and other footy related articles with thousands of fans at r/football.
Interested in writing for LastWordOnSports? Find more info at our “Join Our Team” page.
Photo Credit: El rector y los hermanos Silvia y Manuel Pellegrini, Wiki Commons
