In a thoroughly dominant display, the Blues cruised into the last four with a 4-1 win over Hull at the Etihad Stadium.
The hosts opened the scoring on 12 minutes, before a seven-minute blitz late on added the second, third and fourth goals. Despite a late consolation from the visitors in injury time, little could dampen an excellent night for the Chilean’s men.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, he reflected: “I am very pleased because that was a difficult game against a good team at the top of the table in the Championship.
“More than that, we played our third game in less than one week - we played on Wednesday, Saturday and Tuesday - I think we had a very good response of the squad with different names.”
In the absence of skipper Vincent Kompany, David Silva marshalled the Blues to victory, making his return to the starting line-up after injury, and produced a Man of the Match display.
Pellegrini asserted he was very pleased with the Spaniard’s contribution, as well as those of youngster Wilfried Bony - both of whom wrote their names onto the scoresheet.
“It was very important for David,” the Blues boss declared. “The most important thing was to qualify for the semi-final - but it was also important for him to have 80 minutes after a long injury.
“It was also important for Bony to play for 65 minutes after he only recovered from a muscle injury a few days before Saturday, and it was good for Kelechi to score.
“He is a very young player. He wants to learn more every day and scoring goals is important for his development.
“It is great for all the players to be involved in all competitions.”
Pellegrini also provided an update on City’s injury situation, stating he is hopeful Joe Hart and Sergio Aguero could return this weekend. However, he also revealed Kompany is unlikely to return before mid-December.
“I don’t think Vincent will be ready soon,” he said, “maybe against Swansea but not before.
“Hart could be fit for Saturday; if not Tuesday, while Kun has pain in his heel - he is improving but we will see tomorrow if he can play on Saturday.
“Fernando has a small problem and Samir Nasri has a long time to recover.
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City face Borussia Monchengladbach in their next home game, at 7.45pm on Tuesday 8 December. Tickets are on sale and are priced from just £5 for Under 16s and £20 for adults. Secure your seat now.
