Manuel Pellegrini has admitted that he could be sacked if he fails to secure Champions League qualification for Manchester City this season.

The 61-year-old Chilean arrived at the Etihad Stadium in summer 2013 and had an immediate impact in his first season last term as he guided City to the Premier League title.

However a run of four defeats in six matches, including last Sunday’s dismal 4-2 derby loss at Manchester United, has left City out of the race to retain their title and now facing a fight to stay in the top four to ensure more Champions League football next season.

They were able to get back to winning ways on Sunday though as they eased to a 2-0 victory over West Ham at the Etihad Stadium and now currently hold a seven-point cushion over fifth-placed Liverpool, who do have a game in hand.

And while Pellegrini does not believe he will be shown the exit door this summer for failing to win the title and missing out on silverware, he fears the axe if a top-four spot is not secured.

He said: “You are wrong if you think that, at this club, you are out if you don’t win the title.

“If we miss the top four then maybe it will be different because that would not be the same thing.”

Pellegrini added: “If that happens, the analysis of the season will be different. Not to play in the Champions League is a disaster.”