Mark
Dec 30 2002, 01:41 PM
MARCELLO LIPPI is on the verge of sealing a new deal at Juventus, and insisted he would only take over the Italian national side if his club decided to dispose of his services. The popular coach returned to the club for his second stint last season and promptly won the Scudetto on the final day of the season - adding the Italian Super Cup to the trophy cabinet as well.
Lippi has admitted that a deal has already been agreed, and the final details will be finalised imminently.
"I have already found an agreement with the management, whether it's one or two seasons is irrelevant.
"I've already spoken to Luciano Moggi and when there is a free moment I will sign.
"I have already said that no coach wants to refuse the Italian national job.
"But unless Juventus don't want me - and I will not leave this club willingly again - I will not consider the job.
"After Juventus I will not manage any other Italian side."
Lippi also looked at recent problems - poor domestic form and the lengthy negotiations over Alessandro Del Piero's new contract.
"It has been a great year - firstly we won the title and the Italian suppercoppa, and secondly - despite the injury problems at the club and some patchy domestic form - we are in a great position in the Champions League.
"In my opinion Del Piero will renew his contract soon.
"I don't see any other outcome. He is our flag - our symbol - and I think he is as aware of this as the management are.
"I have the feeling that when he is finished he will stay on in some manner with the Juventus group."
Lippi has admitted that a deal has already been agreed, and the final details will be finalised imminently.
"I have already found an agreement with the management, whether it's one or two seasons is irrelevant.
"I've already spoken to Luciano Moggi and when there is a free moment I will sign.
"I have already said that no coach wants to refuse the Italian national job.
"But unless Juventus don't want me - and I will not leave this club willingly again - I will not consider the job.
"After Juventus I will not manage any other Italian side."
Lippi also looked at recent problems - poor domestic form and the lengthy negotiations over Alessandro Del Piero's new contract.
"It has been a great year - firstly we won the title and the Italian suppercoppa, and secondly - despite the injury problems at the club and some patchy domestic form - we are in a great position in the Champions League.
"In my opinion Del Piero will renew his contract soon.
"I don't see any other outcome. He is our flag - our symbol - and I think he is as aware of this as the management are.
"I have the feeling that when he is finished he will stay on in some manner with the Juventus group."