Ventura hails Mancini work

By Football Italia staff

Giampiero Ventura has hailed Roberto Mancini for doing an ‘excellent job’ as Italy CT and believes ‘the prerequisites are there’ for the Azzurri to succeed.

Ventura left Italy’s stock at an all-time low after he failed to lead them into the 2018 World Cup, whereas Mancini has gone on to win both of his opening Euro 2020 qualifiers and blood several youngsters.

“Mancini’s doing an excellent job,” the 71-year-old told Radio Kiss Kiss.

“Beyond the results, which time leaves behind, what matters now is what’s being sown.

“He’s found fertile ground and done well so far. Today we have a batch of young players who have grown exponentially. Some like Kean and Zaniolo are coming through.

“There are the prerequisites for laying the groundwork so Italy get back to being a competitive national team.”

Ventura attempted a comeback at Chievo earlier in the season, but he lasted just four games before stepping down from the relegated Flying Donkeys.

“I hope to have an answer in two weeks,” he replied when asked about whether he had another role lined up.

“There’s hope, both in Italy and abroad. Talking about Chievo is a bit more complex.

“Clearly there were problems of various kinds with regards to future planning. When I realised that there was no possibility of being able to plan, I left.

“Having said that, I’m sorry [for their relegation] as Chievo wrote important pages in the history of Serie A.

“The hope is that they immediately return to Serie A.”

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