Trapattoni turned down Juventus offer

(GSM) – Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni claims he had rejected an offer to return as Juventus manager in January. Juve are believed to have made the move right after Ciro Ferrara’s sacking.

However, Juve eventually appointed former AC Milan coach Alberto Zaccheroni as their manager with a contract that ends when the season comes to a close.

Trapattoni has a great history at the Turin giants, having managed the club for 10 years between 1976 and 1986.

During his 10-year-reign, Trap led the Old Lady to winning six Serie A titles and a European Cup.

The 71-year-old admits he rejected the offer “with a heavy heart” as he is focused on guiding the Republic of Ireland to Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

“It was impossible to divide my time between Ireland and a club,” Trapattoni told Mediaset.

“With a heavy heart I had to turn it down, as it was impossible to divide my time between Ireland and a club. It would not have been professional of me.”