Roberto Mancini insists it is “good for Italian football” to export players like Mario Balotelli, but snapped at Jose Mourinho over Portugal.
Roberto Mancini insists it is “good for Italian football” to export players like Mario Balotelli, but snapped at Jose Mourinho over Portugal.
The former Manchester City and Galatasaray manager spoke to Calciomercato.it after he was spotted in the stands for last night’s Roma 5-1 CSKA Moscow Champions League tie.
“I was a guest of Roma and thank them for the invite. Rudi Garcia and the squad deserve compliments, as it was the best way to start a difficult group.
“Roma’s group is certainly the most balanced and the match between the Giallorossi and Manchester City will be fundamental for their progress.”
There were many Italians hitting the headlines in the Champions League this week, as Balotelli scored for Liverpool against Ludogorets and Ciro Immobile netted in Borussia Dortmund’s victory over Arsenal.
“I am happy for the good results of our Italians abroad. They have the chance to improve by playing consistently and that can only be good for Italian football,” assured Mancini.
This week Mancio also denied he had been in talks with Lokomotiv Moscow, but left the door wide open for the Portugal bench after Paulo Bento’s dismissal.
“There is too much talk about me and often the information given is inaccurate, such as the allegations of my apparent wage demands for Lokomotiv Moscow, which is all entirely without foundation. I haven’t spoken to anyone from Russia, nor with intermediaries who are negotiating for me. Anyone who claims they are my agent or intermediary is just someone seeking visibility.
“As for Portugal, they are one of the best national teams in the world with many talented players, so it would be an honour for me.
“Of course I am intrigued at the prospect of coaching a champion like Cristiano Ronaldo, an immense player who does not stop astounding us.”
Jose Mourinho had numerous verbal battles with Mancini over the years and complained he did not want a foreign Coach on the Portugal bench.
“I think Mourinho is still the Coach of Chelsea and not the President of the Portuguese Federation,” replied Mancini.
“The job of choosing the next Portugal manager is down to the Federation and, whatever decision they make, it will be the best solution for their national team.
“I consider Italian Coaches to be the best in the world, as they are very well-prepared and competent. I am sure Claudio Ranieri will do well with Greece, as he already did with Monaco.
“Look also at Carlo Ancelotti, who just won the Champions League with Real Madrid, and Cesare Prandelli who went to Galatasaray.”
Finally, Mancini confirmed he will take part in a charity match in Florida between European and Brazilian legends to be played on October 24.
“I am already worried! I’ve been training hard, doing dozens of kilometres on the bike.”