Zdenek Zeman has suggested that his capital loyalties lie more with Lazio than Roma, admitting he ‘cried’ when he left the Aquile.
Zeman coached both capital clubs in the 1990s but despite returning to Roma for a second spell six years ago, the Czech Coach confessed he felt more of an affinity with Lazio.
Zdenek Zeman has suggested that his capital loyalties lie more with Lazio than Roma, admitting he ‘cried’ when he left the Aquile.
Zeman coached both capital clubs in the 1990s but despite returning to Roma for a second spell six years ago, the Czech Coach confessed he felt more of an affinity with Lazio.
“I didn’t believe [Roma President] Franco Sensi was calling me,” he told Denik Sport, where you can watch his entire interview.
“Then the sporting director called and I knew him, so we made a deal. They called me from Roma when I was in Prague.
“And when I came to Rome airport, I met some Lazio fans who told me I’m right and I can go to Roma.
“It doesn’t normally happen because there’s a huge rivalry. Although when I lost to Lazio in my first derby, the Roma fans told me I was a Laziale.
“Three points are three points. But it’s normal that the whole city is living for the derby afterwards
“Everyone is different. I have friends both at Lazio and Roma, I can’t cut myself in half. I’m an amphibian…
“Well… I cried when I was leaving Lazio. Fans were putting together a petition to leave me there. First of all I was a lot younger so I took it harder.
“It wasn’t like that when I left Roma, it was the first time I left after the end of the season and I understood the President that he had to do it and change me for Fabio Capello.
“I don’t feel old, especially after I say Jupp Heynckes in the Champions League semifinals. I still have a lot of time for the end. But it depends on who gives me a chance.
“For the time being I have some talks with several clubs, not just in Italy, but also abroad. And I hope I decide for something good where I can enjoy doing football.
“I’m close to a new job, but they and I have to make a final decision. Can I say who they are? No. I hope it’s concluded before Christmas.”