Manchester City boss Mancini linked with shock move to Russia

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has been linked with a shock move to take over the Russia national team and media reports in Russia claim he could be appointed as early as next week.

Mancini, who took charge at City in 2009 and led the club to their first league title in 44 years last season, was previously approached by the Russian FA with regards to coaching the national team following the departure of Guus Hiddink in 2010.

On that occasion, the Italian decided to remain with City, but according to Denis Bistrov, a football correspondent for Russian sports website, Sports.ru, he has again been approached and offered a six-year deal worth €7.2 million a year, twice his current City contract.

In addition, it has been claimed City will be given €20 million in compensation and that Mancini is currently evaluating his options.

It was widely reported last week that Mancini, who has entered the final 12 months of his current deal, had been offered a new four-year, multi-million pound contact by City.

While it does not come as a surprise that Mancini has been approached, particularly given the list of high-profile managers who have also been considered by the Russian FA, namely Pep Guardiola, Fabio Capello and Luciano Spalletti, it would be a major shock if he decides to leave the Premier League champions for the Russia job.

Furthermore, the reports linking him with the Russia role could be used by Mancini's representatives to leverage more money from City during the negotiations for Mancini's new contract.

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