Italians tear former coach apart: Mancini’s Saudi debut goes wrong

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As usual, the new national coach of Saudi Arabia, Roberto Mancini (58), was on the sidelines of St. James’ Park in Newcastle on Friday evening. But there was not much reason for joy for the man in the smart suit; his debut was a complete failure.

His team had to admit a 3-1 defeat against a desolate background in the friendly match against Costa Rica. A group of English fans who protested in the stands against Saudi sportswashing also caused a stir.

Harsh words from home

The fact that Mancini has not yet been forgiven for his surprising and styleless departure in his home country Italy is also evident from the reactions of the media after the match. The 2021 European champion coach is getting his fat trimmed off.

“Mancini begins his steep path as coach of Saudi Arabia with a defeat between indifference and protests: a walk through the desert,” writes “Corriere della Sera”.

“Worrying defeat”

“Tuttosport” notes: “Mancini fails to elevate the modest technical and tactical level of the Green Falcons, who suffered their fifth consecutive defeat against Costa Rica.”

The ‘Corriero dello Sport’ meanwhile writes about a ‘worrying defeat’. Because the team with which their former coach wants to make history has suddenly shown its limits. According to the newspaper, most of the team’s players act “inaccurately and naively” and do not have international stature.

The translator behind you

It also took some getting used to: Mancini had an interpreter at his side throughout the match who passed on his instructions to the team. The former striker’s dissatisfaction with his performance was clear to see throughout the match.

But Mancini doesn’t have long to come to terms with it. The next test match is scheduled for Tuesday. Then the team from the desert meets the South Koreans, who are trained by German coach Jürgen Klinsmann (59). (bjl)

Source : Blick