Roberto Mancini confirmed Inter “might have to sacrifice some big players to reach other targets” and explained his comeback.
“After many years abroad, I wanted to continue with that sort of opportunity, but then Inter arrived and that was a big chunk of my life,” Mancio told Sky Sport Italia.
“The affection of the fans and all the hard work we did together counted for a lot, without forgetting their desire to emerge from a difficult situation.
Roberto Mancini confirmed Inter “might have to sacrifice some big players to reach other targets” and explained his comeback.
“After many years abroad, I wanted to continue with that sort of opportunity, but then Inter arrived and that was a big chunk of my life,” Mancio told Sky Sport Italia.
“The affection of the fans and all the hard work we did together counted for a lot, without forgetting their desire to emerge from a difficult situation.
“Today Inter are different and the idea of being back here seemed wonderful to me. Besides, Inter are Inter and Italy is the nation of football.
“Most of the fans were happy about my return, which gives me more strength to do better. It’ll be tough and we will all need to suffer.
“I don’t know how long a road it will be. Inter started the campaign with certain objectives and it’ll be difficult to get into the Champions League, but we’re not so far off. It is our duty to try until the end.
“Could we win the Europa League? I hope so, it would be a joy and a great triumph, but it will be a difficult journey.”
Mancini was brought in to replace Walter Mazzarri, but has not spoken to his predecessor.
“I have not had the opportunity. If the chance were to arise, why not?”
The Nerazzurri have little money to spend, partly due to UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations.
“It does represent a big problem, so we must do well in scouting to anticipate big clubs who can afford top transfer fees,” continued Mancini.
“Inter have been doing this for years and I think we need the courage to invest on strong young players, such as Mateo Kovacic.
“I hope it won’t happen, but we might have to sacrifice some big players to reach other targets. Inter need high-profile figures in certain areas of the team, where we are lacking something. As I’ve already said, the most important position is attacking wingers.”
Before Antonio Conte was appointed, Mancini had been suggested as a possible Italy boss.
“It wasn’t something I was thinking about. I had been evaluating another experience abroad, but if one day the chance should arise for me to sit on the Azzurri bench, it would be an honour for me.
“Working abroad helps to ‘open’ the mind. All Italians ought to have this experience.”