Manuel Pellegrini says he has 'only good memories' of his time at Manchester City as the West Ham manager prepares to return to the Etihad Stadium for the first time since his departure.
During his time in the north west, Pellegrini won the Premier League and League Cup in his first season, before adding a second League Cup in his final term before being replaced by Pep Guardiola.
The Chilean's departure was announced half way through his last season at the club, but as he returns to Manchester, Pellegrini has fond memories of a time where, with more power to invest, he believes they could have won more.
"Three beautiful years, especially when we won the Premier League we had a very successful season," Pellegrini said.
"Not only because we won that but it was the team that scored the most goals in history of England.
"The second year was a little more difficult finishing second and couldn't win a title as we were punished from Uefa rules so we couldn't strengthen our squad, it is so important when you win title to bring in new players to improve.
"The third season we won the Cup, were in the semi finals of the Champions League, so three years I was very happy, the fans enjoyed the football we played.
"Only good memories."
Guardiola's City became the first side in the club's history to successfully defend a trophy on Sunday when they beat Chelsea in the EFL Cup final thanks to a penalty shootout.
Many in east London will have been glad to see the Premier League champions taken the distance by Maurizio Sarri's side, but Pellegrini says they'll have no trouble being fresh for Wednesday's encounter.
"No I don't think so," he added. "Playing 120 minutes of course is a lot, a long game but they have a strong squad, they can make the changes that they want and continue to have the best squad in the Premier League."
