Manchester City sack Roberto Mancini
Roberto Mancini has been sacked as manager of Manchester City, the club have confirmed.
Assistant manager Brian Kidd is set to take charge of the first team on an interim basis for the remaining two games of the season, as well as their post-season tour to the United States.
The news comes following days of mounting speculation of the 48-year-old’s exit, after City surrendered their Premier League title to rivals Manchester United, and also suffered defeat at the hands of relegation-bound Wigan in the FA Cup final.
Reports this week have suggested Malaga boss Manuel Pellegrini is Mancini’s most likely replacement, and while the former Real Madrid coach has since made it clear he has not been approached by the Blues, he has made no secret about the uncertainty of his future at the La Liga side.
Mancini was lauded for leading City to their first league title in 44 years by winning the Premier League last season, while he also claimed the FA Cup crown in his first term in charge.
But ultimately it was not enough, as a statement explained the boss got the sack due to the team's failure to achieve the club's season objectives.
The full statement read: “It is with regret that Manchester City Football Club announces that Roberto Mancini has been relieved of his duties as Manchester City manager.
“This has been a difficult decision for the owner, Chairman and Board to make and it is the outcome of a planned end of season review process that has been brought forward in light of recent speculation and out of respect for Roberto and his extensive contributions to the Football Club.
“Despite everyone’s best efforts, the Club has failed to achieve any of its stated targets this year, with the exception of qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
“This has meant that the decision has been taken to find a new manager for the 2013/14 season and beyond."
City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said of Mancini’s departure: “Roberto’s record speaks for itself and he has the respect and gratitude of Sheikh Mansour, myself and the Board for all of his hard work and commitment over the last three and a half years.
“He has clearly also secured the love and respect of our fans. He has done as he promised and delivered silverware and success, breaking the Club’s 35-year trophy drought and securing the title in 2012.
“I would like to personally and publicly thank him for his dedication to the progress that he has overseen and for his support and continued friendship."