Ilary Blasi, the wife of Francesco Totti, has labelled Roma Coach Luciano Spalletti as ‘a small man.’
The model gave an interview to Gazzetta Dello Sport to mark her husband’s 40th birthday, but reserved criticism for the Giallorossi boss.
The relationship between iconic club captain Totti and Spalletti has had its difficulties since the latter’s return to the club earlier this year.
Ilary Blasi, the wife of Francesco Totti, has labelled Roma Coach Luciano Spalletti as ‘a small man.’
The model gave an interview to Gazzetta Dello Sport to mark her husband’s 40th birthday, but reserved criticism for the Giallorossi boss.
The relationship between iconic club captain Totti and Spalletti has had its difficulties since the latter’s return to the club earlier this year.
In February, the Coach sent the player home from the club’s Trigoria base for publicly criticising the former Zenit St Petersburg boss' ‘lack of respect’ for him.
“I have never allowed myself to worry about what others say, I know that Francesco doesn’t have to prove anything," Blasi told the Italian daily.
“The fans wanted him to retire, he made them all change their mind.
“When he was sent home from training, it was surreal, science-fiction! He was kicked out of his own home.
“When he came back I said to him, ‘Let’s go to the stadium, we need to be there.’ And the fans showed that they had not abandoned him.
“Spalletti? His footballing choices are a matter of opinion but not argued with, but on a human level it is laughable.
“In the interview with Rai, Francesco only asked for respect, and he was right. At that moment, he was not getting any.
“I don’t criticise the decisions but I criticise the human behaviour and Spalletti has been a small man.
“He could have been more sensitive but he hasn’t. I judge people based on this and I would give him a very low mark.”
Since the bust up in February, Totti has worked his way back into Spalletti’s plans, though often as a substitute. Nevertheless, it appears there is still some ill feeling between the two.
Blasi also hit out at Roma President James Pallotta, telling him that he should think before he speaks.
“Make me be quiet, or else it will be a mess! I would tell him to think before he speaks!"
Finally, the model admitted she doesn't know whether this season will be Totti's last as a professional.
“That’s something he has to decide. If he weren’t the age he is, he would be the first to go into battle.”