By Andrew Warshaw
July 9 – Russia’s hopes of hiring Roberto Mancini as their national coach in succession to Dick Advocaat were scuppered today when it was announced that the Italian, who led Manchester City to the English Premier League title for the first time in 44 years, had signed a new five-year agreement with the club.
The Russian Football Union (RFU) had reportedly dangled a six-year deal worth £6 million ($9 million/€8 million) a year in front of Mancini (pictured above) but a brief City statement read: “Manchester City Football Club today are pleased to announce that a new contract has been agreed with manager Roberto Mancini.
“The deal, which runs until the summer of 2017, follows the club’s most successful season in more than four decades, which concluded in the most dramatic of circumstances in the team’s thrilling 3-2 win over Queens Park Rangers in May this year.”
Mancini replaced Mark Hughes as City manager in December 2009, guiding them to the FA Cup in 2011.
A year later, thanks in large part to huge resources from their Abu Dhabi backers, they secured their first league title since 1968.
“Manchester City is a fantastic football club,” Mancini told the club’s website.
“I am very much looking forward to the challenges and excitement ahead.
“I am delighted to be able to give all of my efforts to Manchester City for a further five years.
“The opportunity which exists to build on our recent success is enormous.”
Reports from Russia and Italy said earlier that Mancini could possibly be lured away on a six-year contract that would cover the period of the Russians hosting the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
According to its website, the RFU will name the official candidates to replace Advocaat (pictured above) tomorrow.
“On Tuesday, July 10, a list of coaches will be published on the RFU’s official website and with whom the RFU will start contract negotiations,” a statement said.
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