Manuel Pellegrini says he would prefer to win the title and be sacked by Manchester City, than to extend his stay and win nothing.

Pep Guardiola’s links to Manchester City have strengthened with the Spaniard saying he wants to manage in the Premier League.

And though Pellegrini signed a contract extension at the start of the season, he says he would accept a sacking if it meant he bowed out with the Premier League title.

Speaking at Tuesday’s press conference, Pellegrini said:

If I have the option to renew here for five more years or to win the title and be sacked, I’d prefer to win the title. I don’t think my position in the future is linked to titles. For me, as a manager, it’s important to win the title because it’s my job.

Unlike previous manager Roberto Mancini, Pellegrini was retained for another season despite ending the 2014/15 season trophyless.

And he says the owners have the right to change manager irrespective of whether the title has been delivered.