Micah Richards has now shared an interesting story about Roberto Mancini – from when the Italian announced his departure from Manchester City.
The 35-year-old made the comments when speaking to Gary Lineker on The Rest Is Football podcast.
So, what did Micah Richards say about Roberto Mancini? Let’s take a look…
What Micah Richards said about Roberto Mancini
Well, the 59-year-old was a popular figure during his time at the Etihad Stadium.
Mancini guided Manchester City to a first Premier League title in the most remarkable of circumstances, etching himself into folklore as the man who snatched the trophy from Manchester United.
However, not everybody at Manchester City liked the Iesi-born tactician judging by the response to his departure. Joe Hart has already disclosed that Shay Given had issues with Mancini.
Richards – who criticised Manuel Akanji after Sunday’s draw against Tottenham – said: “Before we move on I’ve got to tell people quickly about Mancini. It was weird, because I was like Mancini’s love child.
“I remember we were down at Wembley, and we were in a hotel. He came, and we were all sat at the table, and I remember him just having a conversation saying, right, that’s going to be me done. It was weird because half the table were gutted, and the other half of the table, I swear, I’m not exaggerating, we’re like cheering! It was absolutely ludicrous. The guy just lost his job and everyone is smiling and joking. The worst thing is, even some of the guys who were in the team (starting XI) were cheering, it was madness.”
Now, that is very disrespectful.
Whether you like a manager or not, true feelings should be withheld at least until the person in question has left the room – for some Manchester City players to audibly make their delight at Mancini’s exit known is very disappointing.
How Roberto Mancini has fared since leaving Manchester City
Mancini has enjoyed some more special chapters in his managerial career since leaving the Etihad Stadium in 2013.
The Italian won the Turkish Cup with Galatasaray in 2014 before going on to win EURO 2020 with Italy – unfortunately defeating England on penalties in the final at Wembley.
That landed Mancini the World Soccer Men’s Manager of the Year award in 2021 – he is now in charge of the Saudi Arabia national team as a new chapter begins.
