Manchester City fires manager Mancini

Manchester City announced Monday that it fired manager Roberto Mancini, just one year after he led the team to its first English league soccer title in 44 years.

Mancini, who was the team's coach for three and half years, had four years remaining on his contract.

"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," Manchester City said in a statement.

It has been reported that Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini has been lined up to replace Mancini.

Assistant manager Brian Kidd will coach the team for the remaining two games of the season and the postseason tour to the United States.