Manuel Pellegrini Confirmed As New Manchester City Manager

Manchester City have announced the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini as their new manager.

The Chilean coach has signed a three year deal at the Etihad Stadium after stepping down as Malaga coach last month, and will officially take on first team duties from June 24.

"I am delighted to accept this hugely exciting opportunity," Pellegrini said. "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."

The Premier League runners up have been manager less since Roberto Mancini was relieved of his duties exactly a year on from guiding City to their first ever Premier League crown in May.

The experienced Pellegrini managed eight different clubs across his native Chile and Argentina before making his move to Europe in 2004. Since then he has enjoyed spells at Villarreal and Real Madrid prior to guiding Malaga to their first ever Champions League campaign last season, where the Andalusian club surprised many in reaching the quarter finals of the competition.

The 59-year-old also guided Real Madrid to their highest ever points tally in the 2009/2010 campaign with 96 points from a possible 114, although it wasn't enough to shift Barcelona from the top of La Liga.

The manager has also brought three of his trusted back room staff from Malaga with him to Manchester. Ruben Cousillas, Pellegrini's assistant manager has made the move, along with goalkeeping coach Xabier Mancisidor and fitness coach Jose Cabello.

Upon the appointment, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said," Manuel is a hugely experienced and successful manager with a proven track record."

Confirmation of Pellegrini's appointment follows Malaga's announcement that Bernd Schuster will take the reins at the La Rosaleda Stadium.