Managers who may replace Pellegrini in “Out of the box Choices”

There is a growing feeling that Manuel  will not be in charge at Manchester City next season.

The Blues’ stuttering title defence and premature elimination in Europe – not to mention early cup exits – has left many fans and observers predicting a change in personnel in the Etihad dugout come summer.

However, the obviously preferred candidates to replace Pellegrini, such as Pep Guardiola and Diego Simeone, may not be available.

1. Frank De Boer                         

The talented Dutchman has consistently been linked with Premier League clubs like Liverpool and Tottenham, while he also hinted at being open to taking the Newcastle job, but he would certainly be a bold choice for the Premier League champions.

The 44-year-old has experience and pedigree in top-flight coaching, winning four Eredivisie titles in a row with Ajax but Manchester City would be a considerable step-up.

1. Ronald Koeman

Koeman has definitely built a positive reputation for himself ever since he was appointed as the head coach of Southampton last summer. He previously stated his desire to one day take over at Barcelona, making his ambitions well known, and his track record at unearthing Premier League worthy talent like Pelle, Tadic could work in his favour.

A strong finish to the season with Southampton might as well be Koeman’s golden ticket to Manchester City.

1. Vincenzo Montella

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Currently impressing in Series A with Fiorentina, he certainly belongs to the bracket of exciting young managers in European football and may be considered a potential candidate for the City job. Montella preaches a high tempo passing game from his players and La Viola have also been deadly on the counterattacks under his leadership. He certainly possesses an aptitude and charisma required in high-end football management and with a squad like City’s, Montella could do great things.

1. Nuno Espirito Santo

The Portuguese coach has propelled Valencia into a side fighting for Champions League football once again in his first season in charge and his endlessly positive approach to coaching has prompted rumours of a potential big move. At times under Santo, Los Che have been flying high this season, which has not gone unnoticed. He is renowned for his remarkable man-management skills, often embracing his players after games and constantly portraying an approachable, encouraging figure on the touchline. His ability to create an atmosphere of harmony could be the perfect antidote to a fractured Manchester City dressing room that has been riddled with rifts in recent weeks.

1. Roger Schmidt

Schmidt has deployed an absorbing and attractive brand of football at Bayer Leverkusen this season and it has turned them into one of the continent’s great entertainers. His heightened tactical knowledge would be extremely conducive in the Premier League while his ability to get the best out of attacking players could reinvigorate City’s myriad talents up front.