Roberto Mancini has refused to rule out a return to Inter, citing the age-old cliché that ‘anything can happen’ in football.
Roberto Mancini has refused to rule out a return to Inter, citing the age-old cliché that ‘anything can happen’ in football.
The 49-year-old has been out of work since leaving Galatasaray in June, but there are increasing reports that he could make a sensational return to the Nerazzurri in light of speculation facing current incumbent Walter Mazzarri.
“I will surely return to coaching next season, perhaps even this year. Inter? I had an extraordinary experience there, as we won a lot together,” he told MilanInterTV.
“I don’t know what will happen, it's hard to say right now. From now until the summer, anything can happen, but Inter already have a good Coach.”
Mancini, who enjoyed a trophy-laden spell at Inter between 2004 and 2008 winning three consecutive Scudetti and three Coppe Italia, was also quizzed on a possible meeting with CEO Michael Bolingbroke, the team’s performance and their administration.
“I went to Cesena to watch the game. I said hello to [Michael] Bolingbroke because we came across each other when in Manchester, that's all,” the former Manchester City boss added.
“I can’t judge from the outside. I reiterate that Inter have a good team, and with a little more composure, they can fight for the Champions League. They’re not far behind.
“[Sinisa Mihajlovic] has now accumulated a lot of experience and is doing very well at Sampdoria. I think he’s fairly ready for a team like Inter.
“I spent four years with [Massimo Moratti], and I’m grateful for the opportunity he gave me. We won together, and they were wonderful years.
“But if he decided [to leave], he did so for the sake of Inter. It was a difficult choice, but he must be respected for it.
“I don’t know the situation [regarding Erick Thohir], but I think that Inter can return to being one of Europe’s biggest clubs under him. It’ll take time, as you can’t do everything in a hurry.
“I think the fans should always stay close to the team. Inter are very important and can help the team in times of trouble.
“They must have confidence. Just by supporting the squad and the Coach, they can get out of this situation.”