Marcello Lippi has revealed that he could be tempted back into a coaching role, but only on the international stage.
The tactician, who guided Italy to World Cup glory in 2006, seemingly announced his retirement yesterday, stepping down as Coach of Guangzhou Evergrande after winning a third consecutive League title.
Marcello Lippi has revealed that he could be tempted back into a coaching role, but only on the international stage.
The tactician, who guided Italy to World Cup glory in 2006, seemingly announced his retirement yesterday, stepping down as Coach of Guangzhou Evergrande after winning a third consecutive League title.
The former Juventus Coach has since taken up the role of technical director at the Chinese club, but hasn’t ruled out a return to international management.
“I’m done with club football,” Lippi commented to Tuttomercatoweb today.
“I’m done with training sessions and the tensions of every day management, but I haven’t closed the door to national teams.
“We’ll see if I’ll sign a new contract with Guangzhou when my current one expires, but a major international project could tempt me in the future.”
Lippi also elaborated on his decision to step down as Guangzhou Coach, despite winning a third consecutive title this year.
“I’m an old man now! But seriously, in spite of my date of birth I’d go forward ready to Coach, but I was feeling a bit of mental fatigue in recent months.
“Guangzhou asked me to renew my deal about six or seven months ago, but I feel very far from home and it was getting too much for me. That’s why I took the decision.
“[Now] I’ll be technical director, a role which will allow me to go home more often. Both myself and the club are excited about this role.”
Despite his homesickness though, Lippi – the first Coach to win both the Asian and European Champions League – has no regrets about his Orient adventure.
“It’s been a beautiful time, a beautiful adventure.
“Two-and-a-half years ago when I chose China I was fascinated by the adventure, and I have to say my expectations were met in full.
“Now, after three League titles, a national Cup and playing in the Club World Cup I can really say I’m happy with my choice.
“I feel a lot of satisfaction after three years of success. I think I’m right in saying that for the first time Guangzhou are ranked top of the Asian coefficient.”