Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Euro 2012: Italy lining up Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini
MANCHESTER CITY could face a fight to hang onto manager Roberto Mancini if England knock Italy out of Euro 2012 in Kiev.
Cesare Prandelli has been a huge success since taking over from Marcello Lippi as Italy boss, boasting a proud 13-game unbeaten record in competitive action.
But Prandelli is believed to be anxious to return to club management at the earliest opportunity which would leave the Italian football federation with a huge headache as they prepare for their 2014 World Cup qualifiers.
If Prandelli decides to quit then Mancini would be the federation’s first choice to replace him.
Mancini is proud of his country and has retained an ambition at some stage of his career to manage the Azzurri.
City who are anxious to tie the 47-year-old to an extended improved contract – his current deal runs out in 12 months – will hope this isn’t the right time.
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is proud of his country and has retained an ambition at some stage of his career to manage the Azzurri
He has just led the club to their first title since 1968, a season after landing the FA Cup to smash a 36 year jinx in which no major silverware was acquired.
Italy’s genuine interest could accelerate the process over a new Eithad contract but at the same time his native country could take hope from the fact that he hasn’t yet been tied down long term.
There is also much support from within Italy for Mancini if Prandelli quits.