Former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has made it clear Italy is his preferred destination should he look to return to managing anytime soon.
However, with Serie A his preferred final stop, he’s in no hurry to get there.
“I have time to come back to Italy, as I am still young,” the 48-year-old told Sky Italia. “Staying abroad, or being put in charge of a national team, could also be a good experience.”
Mancini has in the past spent time with Fiorentina, Lazio, and Inter on the touchline. After being sacked rather harshly at City, he’s enjoying the stress-free environment of his current break.
“I’m happy with this time off. I’ve done this work for many years, and there is always so much pressure. Going forward relentlessly is not easy.”
Mancini was openly furious with City for the firing, and rightly so, given his successes there. He was never in agreement, but a few days ago he finally opened up about his feelings.
“I deserved more respect for what I achieved” said Mancini. “In 3½ seasons with my staff, I believe I did an extraordinary job. City didn’t win a title for 40 years. I won a league, an FA Cup, a Community Shield and, in the worst season, I lost a final and finished second. Two months after my sacking, I still don’t understand the reasons and the timing.”
There have been rumblings ever since his firing that he could be headed to AS Roma. Although he moved to quell those rumors in the short term, he was openly impressed with what the Giallorossi are building.
“Roma? No, I never had direct contact” the Italian told Corriere dello Sport. “But we’re talking about a big club with lots of prestige who are going through a rebuilding phase. That would be an adventure with its own charm. Never say never.”
Could Mancini end up in charge of Michael Bradley at Roma? Apparently, never say never.
