Malaga head coach Manuel Pellegrini has denied he has agreed a deal to replace Roberto Mancini as Manchester City manager. After losing the FA Cup final to Wigan on Saturday, Mancini had some critical words towards City's owners for not denying reports that a deal with Pellegrini was done. But Pellegrini told Malaga's website: "I categorically deny that I am the new Manchester City coach. I have an agreement with Malaga not to talk to anyone and nothing has been agreed with any other outfit." Pellegrini added: "Nothing has been signed and no agreement reached. I've been fortunate enough, and very proud, that every year the big clubs are interested in me. I hope the future of this club will become somewhat clearer in the next few days."
Mancini took the City job from Mark Hughes in December 2009, leading the Citizens to the FA Cup in 2011 and the Premier League title a year later. City officials met with with Pellegrini's agent, Jesus Martinez, in April. Martinez also represents Malaga midfielder Isco, a reported target for Manchester City. However, Mancini said he did not know why the meeting had taken place.
Chilean manager Pellegrini, who has previously managed Real Madrid and Villarreal, took charge of Malaga in November 2010. In his first full season in charge, he guided Malaga to fourth in La Liga and Champions League qualification for the first time. Malaga reached the last eight of the Champions League, before being knocked out by Dortmund and they are currently sixth in La Liga. Despite that they will not play in European competition next term after being banned by Uefa over unpaid bills.
Meanwhile the manager job at Everton is still open after David Moyes will join Manchester United at the end of the season. You can bet on who will be the next Everton manager at Bet365, here are the odds for the top five favourites:
Roberto Martinez - 9/4
Neil Lennon - 3/1
Malky Mackay - 7/2
Alan Stubbs - 5/1
Phil Neville - 10/1
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