Pellegrini was hired by City's Abu Dhabi-based owners to revitalise a team that surrendered the Premier League title to Manchester United last season and the Chilean's new players responded by delivering a stylish victory in his first match in charge.

With title rivals United and Chelsea both winning over the weekend, this was a must-win match for former Malaga boss Pellegrini, who handed starts to new signings Jesus Navas and Fernandinho.

Spanish midfielder David Silva headed the opener in the sixth minute and Argentina forward Sergio Aguero steered in the second in the 22nd minute.

Newcastle's troubles continued when defender Steven Taylor was sent off just before half-time for catching Aguero with a forearm.

Yaya Toure's superb 50th minute free-kick made it three and Samir Nasri came off the bench to complete the demolition with a cool finish 15 minutes from full-time. (AFP)