(CNN) -- Manchester City hired Manuel Pellegrini as its new manager Friday and he was given the clear message that one of his tasks will be to develop younger players alongside the expensive stars bankrolled by wealthy owner Sheikh Mansour. The 59-year-old Pellegrini signed a three-year contract and will begin his role as Roberto Mancini's successor on June 24, the English Premier League club said on its website. Mancini steered City to its first top-flight title in 44 years in 2012 but last season it lagged 11 points behind Manchester United, struggled in Europe and suffered a shock defeat in the FA Cup final.
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Manuel Pellegrini joins Manchester City on a three-year contract from Malaga
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The Chilean replaces Italian Roberto Mancini, who was fired in May
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Manchester City will try to reclaim the Premier League title next season
"We have been greatly impressed throughout the selection process by his philosophy, his attitude, and his commitment to the long-term development of Manchester City," @placeholder chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said.