Argentina skipper stands down

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:10

The Spaniards overcame the loss of world number one Rafael Nadal to a knee injury to prevail 3-1 in Mar del Plata and secure a third Davis Cup title and a first on foreign soil. Argentina’s loss was made all the more painful as it was their first on home soil since 1998, and Mancini, who took over as coach in 2005, has decided now is the right time to go.

He told Argentinian news station Todo Noticias: “This is a decision I made before the final match this weekend, no matter the result. Unfortunately, we failed to win the title.”

He added: “Anyway, I think we’ve had four wonderful years. There were very good victories and some other bad moments. Four years are enough.

“We’ve lived a number of situations together and it’s time to step aside.”

Mancini guided Argentina to the Davis Cup final in 2006 and the semi-finals 12 months earlier but failed to deliver the biggest prize during his tenure.

“This is a passion for me, but I know this is the right time to step aside. I want to,” he continued.

“I am quite sad. Everybody is sad because we wanted to win the final.

“Losing the final at home is even more painful. However, sport makes you live difficult moments sometimes. You have to face it and lose with dignity.”

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