The 58-year-old is the latest high-profile acquisition for the world’s top oil exporter.
RIYADH: Roberto Mancini said he hopes to lead Saudi Arabia to Asian Cup victory within months as he signed a multi-million dollar deal on Monday, just a fortnight after quitting as Italy coach.
“I’m not a magician,” said the Italian, when asked what he could promise the Saudi people – before pledging to go for Asian Cup glory in January-February in Qatar.“We have four months. We have four friendly matches. We have two games for the World Cup and after we have 20 days to prepare for the Asian Cup.”
He arrived in Riyadh just days after Brazilian superstar Neymar was presented to fans in the capital, joining Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and a host of others in the Saudi Pro League. The Green Falcons, who upset eventual winners Argentina in the group stage at last year’s World Cup, have been without a coach since March, when Herve Renard left to take charge of France’s women’s team.
But the Azzurri then failed to qualify for last year’s World Cup following a disastrous playoff defeat to North Macedonia, the second straight time they missed the world’s biggest football tournament.
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