Mancini sacked ‘with regret’ by City after ‘stated targets missed’

City had maintained a silence throughout the day as speculation over Mancini grew.

Rumours the Italian was about to be axed and replaced with Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini had gathered momentum since Friday, the eve of City’s shock FA Cup final loss to Wigan.

Mancini hit out at City officials for failing to extinguish the speculation after that humbling defeat at Wembley.

City remained in London to train ahead of tonight’s fixture at Reading. Reporters and TV crews had waited outside the team hotel and at QPR’s Loftus Road ground, where City trained, throughout the day.

Mancini, who did not stop to speak as he headed for training with the team, or when he left separately afterwards, was rewarded with a five-year contract after last year’s triumph.

But his failure to build on last season’s achievements – and the loss of the title to neighbours United – has cost him his job.

In a statement City said: “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.”

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.