Manuel Pellegrini: Sergio Aguero "one of the best players in the world"

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has insisted that Sergio Aguero is "one of the best players in the world" following his Champions League heroics.

The Argentine striker netted a hat-trick, including two in the final five minutes, as the Citizens improved their qualification chances with a 3-2 win over Bayern Munich at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.

"I have always said that Sergio is one of the best players in the world," Pellegrini told reporters.

"He played very well against Bayern Munich but I think also that the team played very well, especially in the second half."

Aguero, who was omitted from FIFA's 23-man shortlist for the 2014 Ballon d'Or, has now scored 17 goals in 18 games for City in all competitions this season.