Pep Guardiola will take over as coach of Manchester City on a three-year deal, the English club said Monday after announcing the departure of incumbent Manuel Pellegrini at season’s end.

“Manchester City can confirm that in recent weeks it has commenced and finalised contractual negotiations with Pep Guardiola to become MCFC head coach for the 2016/17 EPL season onwards,” the club said in a statement.

“The contract is for three years. These negotiations were a re-commencement of discussions that were curtailed in 2012.

b’Pep Guardiola will take over from Manuel Pellegrini. AFP’

“Out of respect for Manuel Pellegrini and the players, the club wishes to make its decision public to remove the unnecessary burden of speculation.

“Manuel, who is fully supportive of the decision to make this communication, is entirely focused on achieving his targets for the season ahead and retains the respect and commitment of all involved with the leadership of the club.”

Playing career

Position: defensive midfielder

Teams: Barcelona (1990-2001), Brescia (2001-2002), Roma (2002-2003), Brescia (2003), Al-Ahli (2003-2005), Dorados (2005-2006)

Player honours

Spanish league (6): 1990-1991, 1991-1992, 1992-1993, 1993-1994, 1997-1998, 1998-1999

Spanish Cup (2): 1996-1997, 1997-1998

Spanish Super Cup: 1991, 1992, 1994, 1996

UEFA Cup Winner’s Cup: 1996-1997

UEFA Super Cup: 1992, 1997

b’Guardiola is meticulous in his training methods. AFP’

Managerial career

Teams: Barcelona B (ESP/2007-2008), Barcelona (ESP/2008-2012), Bayern Munich (GER/2013-2016)

Managerial honours

Spanish league: 2008-2009, 2009-2010, 2010-2011

Spanish Cup: 2008-2009, 2011-2012

Spanish Super Cup: 2009, 2010, 2011

UEFA Champions League: 2008-2009, 2010-2011

UEFA Super Cup: 2009, 2011

FIFA Club World Cup: 2009, 2011

German league (2): 2013-14, 2014-2015

German Cup: 2013-2014

UEFA Super Cup: 2013

Club World Cup: 2013