The Italian followed in the footsteps of Joe Mercer and Wilf Wild in guiding the Blues to English football’s pinnacle.
Goals from Pablo Zabaleta, Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero, the last two in injury time secured a first title since 1968.
“This is a great day for City and most of all for the supporters,” beamed Mancini who delivered the FA Cup last season but refused to ackowledge title favouritism for most of the run in.
“It has been 44 years since this club last had their hands on the title and everyone at City knows that is too long. We did it the hard way but I am told that is the City way
“The supporters have never lost faith or patience – even in the last five minutes today – and we are so pleased that this season, we have delivered some history for them.
“Manchester United is a great club and a great opponent and to have come out on top in a fight for the title with them is fantastic.
“We have been strong in our legs and in our minds. Sometimes you learn things in defeat and I saw something special in the 3-2 FA Cup defeat by United in January.
“The players kept their feet on the ground and worked so hard all season and in these last weeks.”
The title was secured against QPR by
“Our form here at the Etihad Stadium has been fantastic this season with **** victories and only one draw and that is great credit to the supporters,” Mancini continued.
“Every week the ground is full and the noise for the team is huge. I have said many times this season that no one should underestimate the help that players get from having a crowd supporting them in this way. It drives us on when things are possible not going so well.
“I am so proud of the players too. They fought hard all season and now can see the rewards. Hopefully this will be just the start of days like this. We set out to make history and that is what we have done.”
