Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini thanked Pope Benedict XVI for his service to the Catholic church following yesterday's victory over Chelsea.

The title-winning boss, who oversaw his side clinch a 2-0 win over the Blues at the Etihad Stadium, had some words for the Pope, who retired from the Vatican yesterday.

Before yesterday's post-match press conference, Mancini said: "One thing I want to say first is for us today is the last Sunday for our Pope. I would like to say thank you for what he did in eight years."

Meanwhile, City remain 12 points adrift of Premier League leaders Manchester United.