Former Roma Coach Luciano Spalletti says “it makes me smile” when he’s accused of forcing Francesco Totti into retirement – “I didn’t sign, he could have”.
The Inter boss left the Giallorossi at the end of the 2016-17 season, but was whistled by the Olimpico crowd in his final match as it was felt he had pushed out Er Pupone.
Former Roma Coach Luciano Spalletti says “it makes me smile” when he’s accused of forcing Francesco Totti into retirement – “I didn’t sign, he could have”.
The Inter boss left the Giallorossi at the end of the 2016-17 season, but was whistled by the Olimpico crowd in his final match as it was felt he had pushed out Er Pupone.
Following the Nerazzurri’s 3-1 win over Lazio, a Roman journalist told Spalletti he wasn’t as “aggressive” in his Press conferences, something he reflected on with Corriere della Sera.
“That attitude isn’t needed at Inter,” Spalletti shrugged.
“I adapt to the context. I had told Roma at the start of the season that I wasn’t signing a new contract, I’d be attacked and I’d reply.
“It makes me smile when they say I made Totti stop. I didn’t sign, he could have.”
Spalletti was then asked if he feels he’s been given enough credit in his career so far.
“I think the balance of what I’ve done now is up to par, I feel responsible both for my successes and the things I couldn’t reach.
“The question we need to ask ourselves is not whether we’re satisfied with what we’ve acheived, but whether we gave all we could give.”
The Tuscan also discussed the current state of the Italian national team.
“The CT, Roberto Mancini, has chosen the path of attacking football, quality and technique, not least because if we try to challenge some other national teams physically we’ll lose,” Spalletti replied.
“It’s the right path, keeping some experienced players and blooding youngsters. In Italy we mustn’t see youngsters as promising, because if they’re selected then they’re the best the country has to offer at that moment.”
It was put to Spalletti that there may be a talent crisis in Italian football. “In other social contexts you mature earlier, but we as Italians mature late, in every sector, and that’s reflected in football too.
“Then there’s another key: the children of immigrants can help. Germany and France won with an important multi-ethnic component.”