Former Italy and Republic of Ireland Coach Giovanni Trapattoni says he will remain neutral for the friendly between the sides tonight.
The 75-year-old’s most recent job was on the Emerald Isle, where he led the Republic to the Euro 2012 finals.
However, he left the post following failure to qualify for this summer’s World Cup and, despite the fact he is Italian, he does not want to see the Irish lose their third consecutive match since his departure.
Former Italy and Republic of Ireland Coach Giovanni Trapattoni says he will remain neutral for the friendly between the sides tonight.
The 75-year-old’s most recent job was on the Emerald Isle, where he led the Republic to the Euro 2012 finals.
However, he left the post following failure to qualify for this summer’s World Cup and, despite the fact he is Italian, he does not want to see the Irish lose their third consecutive match since his departure.
“It’s a friendly, so I want both teams to create a good spectacle,” Trapattoni told Sport Mediaset. “I can’t say I’m supporting one over the other.
“Italy need to show that even if we lose, we are a better team with more important players.
“However, I don’t want Ireland to lose their third match in a row. They have already lost two in a row since I left and I don’t want them to lose another one.”
The veteran tactician also commented on his own future, including his rejection of a surprise offer to take charge of Hungarian outfit Honved.
“Honved’s offer surprised me, but I have to say that I was honoured that such a glorious club thought about me.
“I have to say though that I’m looking for a national team. Let’s wait and see what happens.”