Ranieri cool on City talk
29 May 2007 - 12:36:20
Claudio Ranieri looks set to stay with Parma after cooling reports suggesting he is about to be named as Manchester City's new manager.
The former Chelsea and Valencia boss took charge of Parma in February and helped them avoid relegation from Serie A.
Reports suggested Ranieri would replace Stuart Pearce at Eastlands, as he was favoured by former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who is expected to complete a takeover of the club this summer.
However, the Italian confirmed: "I would like to remain at Parma.
"It is a healthy club, led by people who love football. But my future has yet to be decided."
Asked about his link with City, he added: "I don't know anything about it."
Parma president Tommaso Ghirardi added: "We want Ranieri to stay.
"He's tempted by the idea of going to England but we will try to keep him.
"He is fascinated by English football and this is no secret. But the warmth of the fans and the atmosphere at Parma will make him reflect on his future."