“The fans think the world of him, the players think the world of him”.
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The Eastlands outfit confirmed that the exiting Bayern Munich manager will succeed Pellegrini once his contract in Bavaria expires, leaving the Chilean jobless once the season is over.
“I want to sample the atmosphere, the emotions”, he added.
“These negotiations were a re-commencement of discussions that were curtailed in 2012”.
The 62-year-old Pellegrini knew the end was coming – the club had kept him informed of their behind-the-scenes push for Guardiola’s signature – but he has stayed dignified throughout the process, in the face of constant questions about his future at news conferences.
Pellegrini has spoken regularly of his desire to compete strongly in all competitions but he suggested his hand would be forced to prioritise the Champions League if the FA Cup fifth-round tie is moved to Sunday, February 21 – the day before City are due to fly to Ukraine.
“The most important thing for the team was to come here and win this game and show we can defend very well if we need to”.
Klopp himself has certainly experienced fierce competition since moving from Borussia Dortmund to Liverpool: after 23 games, Liverpool now is in 7th place with a record of 10 wins, 7 draws, and 6 losses.
“Manuel, who is fully supportive of the decision to make this communication, is entirely focused on achieving his targets for the season ahead and retains the respect and commitment of all involved with the leadership of the club”, the City statement said.
However, there is a growing sense that luring Messi to play for a Premier League club is far-fetched, considering the success the Argentine global is experiencing in Barcelona, alongside Neymar and Luis Suarez.
Pellegrini announced his departure at the end of a standard press conference to preview Tuesday’s Premier League game at Sunderland. “For that reason, I think he will have to change the mindset of English football”.
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Pellegrini said: “Before we finish I will tell you that I talked with the club and I will finish my contract on the original date in June”. I knew this one month ago. Vardy reminds me a bit of Steve Taylor, the former Latics striker I played with in the late 70s.
