Ex-Italy coach shuns chance to coach Super Eagles stars

Former Italy and Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has reportedly rejected an approach from Nottingham Forest, ending speculation that he could be the next manager to work with Nigerian stars Taiwo Awoniyi and Ola Aina.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, discussions between the club and Mancini broke down after 24 hours of negotiations.

Fabrizio Romano revealed on X, “After talks in the last 24h, Roberto Mancini won’t become new Nottingham Forest manager at current stage. Despite discussions and negotiations, Forest and Mancini have not reached an agreement.”

Nottingham Forest had identified Mancini as their top choice to replace Ange Postecoglou, who was sacked following a 3-0 defeat to Chelsea.

Postecoglou’s brief spell ended after eight winless Premier League games, leaving Forest searching for their third manager before November.

Mancini’s credentials made him an attractive option for the struggling Premier League side. The 60-year-old Italian famously guided Manchester City to FA Cup success in 2011 and delivered their first Premier League title the following year.

He later led Italy to victory at Euro 2020, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s elite managers.

While Forest had hoped Mancini’s experience could stabilise a squad flirting with relegation, his decision leaves the club scrambling for alternatives.

Postecoglou’s turbulent reign ended amid fan frustration and chants of “sacked in the morning,” creating a tense atmosphere around the City Ground after only 39 days in charge, making it one of the shortest managerial reigns in Premier League history.

Reports suggest former Burnley manager Sean Dyche has also been approached, but no agreement has been finalised yet.