Manchester City are reportedly set to sack Roberto Mancini, possible at some time later today. Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini is the man rumoured to be City's preference for successor. Although City lost Saturday’s FA Cup final 1-0 to underdogs Wigan Athletic it appears even a favourable result in that tie would not have saved the Italian’s job.

Mancini said after the cup final: "I don't know why the club hasn't stopped this because it is not correct and I don't think it is true."

"It is rubbish this speculation. I will still be here next season. It is rubbish, but I know football and know that everything can happen. But if it is true, we will know in the next two weeks.

"If it isn't, this is stupid. If it is true, then I am stupid for not believing this. Maybe next Sunday, when the season is finished, we will know then," he said.

The Guardian reports that Mancini’s sometimes abrasive manner – displayed in the manner of his criticism of the club for not denying stories linking Pellegrini with his job – has alienated him from several players and staff at the club. The Club have repeatedly refused to respond to queries relating to the future of their current manager or their interest in Pellegrini.

Mancini’s exit may be hastened due to the need for City to move quickly in their chase of Pellegrini, as Barcelona are reportedly interested in securing the services of the Chilean. Manchester City sporting director Txixi Begiristain met with Pellegrini last week.

The Daily Telegraph reports Mancini was tasked with winning both the Premier League and Champions League this season, and his failure to seriously challenge for either means that, even with four years remaining on his contract, his time at the City of Manchester stadium is drawing to a close.