In a long interview with Corriere dello Sport, Roberto Mancini, the Italian National team coach, touched on some of the issues concerning his old team, Inter.
“The year 2018, ended in the worst way for Italian Football. We thought the era of violence inside and outside the stadium was over, instead we ran away from it and the death. This time it happened in Milan,” the former Nerazzurri manager said with regret.
“The situation is becoming dire, you cannot go to a football game with fear of death. The moment has arrived for the governing bodies to get involved: someone must make a decision, even if it’s unpopular and end this series of death before it becomes normality again. I was in England for many years when the situation was just as bad and now the players go to celebrate with the fans. So why in Italy, can you not enter a stadium serenely, without risking a bat around the head or knife attack.”
Mancini followed this up by also discussing the recent racial attacks towards players.
“And then there is all the racism, despite the fact that today we have black players in the national team. There is no real sporting culture, the world has changed and not enough people have adapted to it. It starts at home, parents must educate their children for this future. The racists chants do not even make sense because there is a black player in every team so why insult those of the opposing team. Let’s just stop, it’s not necessary.”
He then went to reflect on his six months in charge of the national team so far.
“I’m happy, I think I’ve built a nice group. They’re all special and very amusing. I want them to be like the group of 1990. I’m also thinking about the youth. I’m studying them, preparing them, playing them. The last few games showed a really great chemistry after the disappointment of not watching ourselves at the World Cup.”
How much criticism did you get for giving Zaniolo his first call?
“I was following him with the U19’s, like Tonali and I realised that he had uncommon qualities for such a young lad, who was still finding his feet with the rest of the youth. Compared to his teammates he was far more physical and technically gifted and I think time proved me right. He now seems unmovable at Roma. Zaniolo is the talent of the future.”
Who else could be like Zaniolo?
“Kean is also ready to explode, but obviously there isn’t any space at Juventus. If he were to leave for a bit, we’d have a great forward.”
He then went on to explain why there was no room for Mario Balotelli.
“I have done my best, I always hope something will happen. He will return to the National side only if he deserves it. I know him from both Inter and Manchester so I know he wants a place but he needs to work. The Euro’s and World Cup should be his motivation.”
As a child you went to go watch Juventus with your father. Is that the next step?
“In life, I’ve learnt not to say anything but now is not the time to dream because being the national team coach is the pinnacle.”
Has Ronaldo already decided Serie A?
“He makes a difference both on and off the pitch. He’s totally dedicated to his work. He also helps others grow. You look at his goal and you think he’s from another planet. I was very surprised when he came to Italy.”
Who can hope to challenge them in the future?
“Roma have a lot of young talent, Napoli play very good Football, Milan need a few more big signings, but to me, Inter seem to be their closet rival, in terms of structure and capacity for investment.”
Did you leave Inter too soon?
“I returned to Milan for love and gratitude. I have no regrets. Maybe it took a bit more patience but the choices should be made when they feel right and I decided it was time to give up. I only looked forward.”
