Manchester City, as a club, has never shied away from spending colossal sums of money and their owner, Sheikh Mansour, is a human manifestation of that amazing penchant to spend a fortune on the most ridiculous of things. In an addition to this series of money-spending events, Sheikh Mansour has reportedly given outgoing manager Manuel Pellegrini a gift that could be worth as high as £5.6 million.
According to a report by Manchester Evening News, Mansour, along with Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, has gifted the 62-year-old Chilean an original painting by legendary English artist L.S. Lowry. Although nothing has been confirmed by the club, a painting by Lowry has a price range from £4,000 to £5.6 million and Sheikh Mansour is not the kind of person who will hold back on spending if he feels like.
The former Real Madrid and Malaga manager is said to be a big lover of art and is used to spending a lot of his free time at various cultural spots around the United Kingdom. He is also said to have attended art-related events in the past.
Manchester City played their last home game of the season against Arsenal on May 8 and it ended in a 2-2 draw. The manager was given a farewell after the match but it evoked a cold response from the crowd as most of them were not present to bid Pellegrini adieu.
Also read: Arsenal leave Manchester City's Champions League hopes hanging with 2-2 draw at Etihad
However, the 62-year-old, gracious as ever, had only nice things to say to those present. "Not winning this game is not the way we wanted to finish the season. We want to qualify for next year's Champions League.
Recollecting his time at the club, during which he delivered one Premier League and two League Cup trophies, he said, "For me it's been three wonderful, unforgettable years. Thanks to the fans for all, I will never forget you.
"Don't change because this team needs you and I'm sure next year you will do well in all competitions. Thank you all.”
Pellegrini will be relieved of his duties after Manchester City’s last game of the Premier League season away to Swansea City on May 15th. They are currently fourth on the table with 65 points and one game remaining. Their neighbours, Manchester United, are closing in on the Champions League spot as they are on 63 points with two games in hand. Two wins for Louis van Gaal’s side would ensure fourth place and a place in next season’s Champions League.
