MANCINI THRILLED WITH GALATASARAY CHALLENGE

 

Roberto Mancini has said that it is a "happy coincidence" that his first match as Galatasaray manager will see his side take on Juventus.
The Italian, who signed a three-year contract with the Super Lig champions on Monday, will take the Turkish giants to his homeland for the second match of their UEFA Champions League campaign on Wednesday.
The former Bologna, Sampdoria and Lazio player entered into management with Serie A side Fiorentina in 2001, before leading Inter to three successive Serie A titles between 2005 and 2008.
After then guiding Manchester City to both their first FA Cup and Premier League titles in over 40 years before leaving the Etihad Stadium in May this year, Mancini is now back in management in Istanbul.
The 48-year-old is thrilled to have made his comeback, and is looking forward to the difficult task of beginning his reign at the home of the Italian champions.
"It is a happy coincidence to meet the Bianconeri first and it is a great challenge to prepare for this game in just one day," he told Corriere dello Sport.
"I am happy with the choice I made, as the atmosphere is different here in Istanbul.
"It's a wonderful and intriguing challenge for me at a big club. I am convinced this was the right choice."

Galatasaray will be looking to bounce back from their 6-1 mauling at the hands of Real Madrid in their Champions League Group B opener at the Juventus Stadium.