Pizarro praises Mancini influence

Roma midfielder David Pizarro has credited Roberto Mancini with playing a major role in his loan switch to Manchester City.

Pizarro, 32, appeared set to link up with Serie A leaders Juventus in the January transfer window, but opted instead to join English Premier League front-runners City.

The move came as something of a surprise owing to the fact Pizarro featured rarely under City boss Mancini during the pair’s time together at Inter Milan.

But former Chile international Pizarro said the Italian coach was a key reason for his decision to opt for northwest England over Turin.

“Yes, Roberto Mancini played a big part in the move, because I already had quite an advanced agreement with Juventus,” he said.

“But when I heard about Manchester City’s concrete interest I liked the idea more than Juventus.”

“I worked with him (Mancini) already at Milan in 2005 and I think his personality, his strength in leading important players, and his leadership are the main strengths I see.”

Pizarro is hopeful the Spanish-speaking players and staff on City’s books will help him adjust to his new surroundings.

“The most difficult thing is to leave my children behind, where they go to school.”

“I would describe myself as a family man, so that was the most difficult thing. But there are players here who speak my language and also some of the staff so that will help to fill the gap.”