In his first interview since becoming City boss Roberto Mancini today spoke of his pride at the appointment.

The 45-year-old Italian, whose son Filippo spent some time at City last season, is hoping lightning will strike twice after he led Inter Milan to three league titles after a long barren spell.

“I hope history repeats itself,” he declared ahead of meeting his players for the first time this morning.

“I am proud to get the job because City is a good club with good players. Manchester is similar to Milan in its football passion.

“In Milan there are two big teams there fighting for supremacy and silverware and here it is the same. I like the challenge of that.

I know how fans feel about such matches and I thank those City fans who came to greet me at the hotel.  I know their passion and I know that it helps the team

...Roberto Mancini

Mancini, who arrives having won three successive Serie A titles with Inter Milan will have former Blues ace Brian Kidd as his assistant and bring in coaches with whom he has worked before in his homeland.

He is delighted that Kidd will be part of his team:

“I know Brian, he is a boss in English football,” smiled Mancini who has so far only seen his new side on television and was not at the game against Sunderland at the weekend.

 “I know his record as a top player for City, Everton and United. He was a striker, I was a striker; we share the same football philosophy. He has also has great coaching experience. I am sure we will gel very well.”

The new City chief intends to add former England fitness coach Ivan Carminati, coach Fausto Salsano and goalkeeping specialist Massimo Battara to his staff as soon as possible.

Watch out for a video interview with Roberto Mancini exclusively on mcfc.co.uk later today.