Manchester City Football Club have sacked manager Roberto Mancini.

In an official statement by the club, it reads:

“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, combined with an identified need to develop a holistic approach to all aspects of football at the Club, has meant that the decision has been taken to find a new manager for the 2013/14 season and beyond.

“Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: ‘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.’

“Assistant Manager Brian Kidd will take interim responsibility for the remaining two games of the season and the post-season tour to the United States.”

In the meantime, Manchester City reportedly continue their negotiations behind the scenes to try to sign Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini as their new gaffer to replace Mancini.

What’s your reaction to the breaking news? Do you think Manchester City made the right move by sacking Mancini, or did the club handicap the manager by not communicating with him and not giving him the depth in talent that he needed last summer? Share your reaction in the comments section below.