Ranieri explains City snub
05 Jun 2007 - 09:31:26
Claudio Ranieri has explained that he could not wait for Manchester City's takeover to be completed, after being named as the new coach of Italian giants Juventus.
The former Chelsea boss had been expected to succeed Stuart Pearce at Eastlands, but has now taken charge of Juve on a three-year contract after leaving Parma.
He told reporters: "You just can't so no to this club. When Juventus call, there is little to think about.
"There was a project to start from scratch at Manchester City, but they haven't yet been bought by a new owner and the weeks were passing by.
"It was difficult to say no to the big project at Manchester City, but I cannot wait for one week more.
"The Juve negotiations came about in a surprising manner. It was like a bolt out of the blue as I didn't expect it."
Meanwhile, the Citizens have confirmed that talks are in an advanced stage over a possible takeover of the club.
A club statement read: "The board of Manchester City confirms that it is now in advanced discussions with interested parties that may or may not lead to an offer being made for the company.
"A further announcement will be made in due course as appropriate."