Beloved Italian football manager Claudio Ranieri shared his thoughts on his career, personal life, and the beautiful game in an interview with Corriere della Sera. With a history that includes managing clubs like Chelsea, Roma, and Leicester City, Ranieri’s journey has been filled with memorable moments and unforgettable quotes.
Reflecting on his coaching philosophy, Ranieri stated, “I can’t change now. I’m like Frank Sinatra – I always do it my way.” This sentiment captures his steadfast approach to management, even when faced with challenges. He humorously recounted his struggles during a match against Monaco: “I told the players everything I did in the Monaco game was wrong. I changed things to win the match – but we lost and I was thinking ‘Oh f***, Claudio, why, why? Bad Tinkerman!'”
Ranieri’s playful nature often emerged in his interactions with players. He famously promised his Leicester City squad pizza if they kept a clean sheet: “I told them, if you keep a clean sheet, I’ll buy pizza for everybody. I think they’re waiting for me to offer a hot dog too.” His lighthearted approach helped foster a strong team spirit.
His affection for players was evident when discussing Damien Duff: “Damien is Damien. When I don’t put him in the squad my mother, who’s 84, asks ‘Why isn’t Damien playing?’ She kills me about it and that’s true.” This quote highlights not only his care for his players but also the endearing connection he has with his family.
Ranieri’s knack for analogies shone through when he compared football managers to parachutists: “Football managers are like a parachutist. At times it doesn’t open. Here, it is an umbrella. You understand, Mary Poppins?” This whimsical comparison illustrates the unpredictability of football management.
His time at Leicester culminated in one of football’s greatest fairy tales when he led the team to their first Premier League title in 2016. Reflecting on that historic season, he said, “A perfect year, unrepeatable. All the planets aligned.” The joy of winning was further emphasized when he recalled a special moment: “It was fantastic when you see before the match an old lady with a Leicester shirt outside the stadium. I say: ‘Unbelievable. They come from Leicester to support us.’ This is my emotion.”
Ranieri also spoke about his experiences in England and how he adapted to the culture. He humorously noted the nickname “Tinkerman” he earned at Chelsea for frequently changing formations: “If it is the case that you need just a first 11 and three or four more players, then why did Christopher Columbus sail to India to discover America?” This quote showcases his cleverness in addressing squad depth.
As he looks back on his career, Ranieri expressed gratitude for those who have supported him along the way. “I must say thank you to the media because you do a great job now. Before you kill me! That crazy man! I give you a good espresso. A small one,” he remarked with a smile.
