Manchester City made a low-key entry into South Africa on Thursday ahead of Manuel Pellegrini's first game in charge of the deposed Premier League champion.

A small gathering of mainly media and local officials in the east coast city welcomed Pellegrini and his strong squad, which includes Sergio Aguero, Yaya Toure and new signings Fernandinho and Jesus Navas.

The tour forms the first leg of City's pre-season preparations, with matches against local clubs Supersport United and AmaZulu over the next seven days as part of the celebrations for ailing former South African President Nelson Mandela's 95th birthday next week.

Pellegrini will take charge for the first time on Sunday against Supersport United in Pretoria after the Chilean signed a three-year-deal last month to replace Roberto Mancini.