Pellegrini remains optimistic after draw

Outgoing Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini strived to put on a brave face after his team's chances of Champions League qualification were compromised by a 2-2 draw with Arsenal on Sunday.

The result at Etihad Stadium means City can only finish in the top four if Manchester United drops points in its final two games or if Arsenal loses at home to cellar-dwelling Aston Villa on the final day of the season.

Dropping down to the Europa League would represent a wretched legacy for Pellegrini, who led City to the Champions League semifinals for the first time this season, but with United facing a testing trip to West Ham United on Tuesday, he said it was important not to abandon hope.