Former Premier League manager Claudio Ranieri has disclosed that he turned down an offer from Chelsea before stepping out of retirement to become Roma’s head coach.
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The 73-year-old Italian tactician was appointed by Roma in November following the dismissal of Ivan Juric.
Ranieri, who famously guided Leicester City to a historic Premier League title in 2016, initially announced his retirement earlier this year.
However, his deep connection to Roma and the opportunity to take on a dual role—coaching the team and serving as an advisor—drew him back into management.
Ranieri’s Decision to Reject Chelsea
Ranieri confirmed that Chelsea had approached him with an offer for a similar position, but he turned it down, citing the lack of necessary “English connections” to fulfill the role effectively.
“They had already asked after me at Chelsea, but I said no,” Ranieri told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “In England, I don’t have the connections that I have here, which I need to do things properly.”
For Ranieri, the allure of managing Roma—a club he has cherished since childhood—proved irresistible. “Roma is my life,” he added.
“Now I have more experience, and I’m vaccinated against every situation. It’s also the realization of a childhood dream, from somebody who stood in the Curva Sud.”
Roma’s Rebuilding Efforts Under Ranieri
When Ranieri took over, Roma was struggling, sitting 12th in Serie A and last in their Europa League group. Since his arrival, the team has made modest improvements, climbing to 10th in the Serie A standings and 14th in the Europa League table.
Ranieri’s dual role allows him to guide Roma’s on-field performances while also advising on the club’s long-term strategy, including the search for a new permanent manager. At the end of the season, he will transition into a senior executive position at the club.
Ranieri’s extensive managerial career includes a four-year stint at Chelsea from 2000 to 2004, long before his iconic Premier League triumph with Leicester City.
His decision to join Roma reflects his enduring passion for Italian football and his commitment to reviving the fortunes of a club he holds dear.
