Mazzone: I am new Livorno boss

Tuesday 7 February, 2006

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Carlo Mazzone is the new Livorno Coach after Roberto Donadoni explained the reasons behind his shock resignation.

Donadoni surprised everyone this afternoon by quitting the sixth-place club following a row with President Aldo Spinelli.


A few hours later, 68-year-old tactician Mazzone announced to news service ANSA that he has signed a six-month contract to take over at the Stadio Armando Picchi.


However, as he still has a one-match touchline ban to sit out from last season’s tenure at relegated Bologna, the former Roma boss will make his official debut in Sunday’s home derby with another of his old clubs, Fiorentina.


Meanwhile, Donadoni has spoken out on the reasons behind his surprise resignation.


“This is the most difficult and painful decision of my career, especially as it comes just before an important match against Ascoli and it is not my style to duck out of responsibility to anyone,” he explained in an open letter to the media.


“If I decided to take a decision that was as sudden as it was irrevocable, it is because I had no other choice. The fact that I was unable to talk to the President, who I knew was upset after Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Messina, does not represent a valid reason. The least I would’ve expected was an open and honest discussion with Spinelli before he went on live television to criticise my work. If the intent was to force my resignation, then he got his wish.”


Spinelli caused shockwaves when he went on television last night and openly blamed Donadoni for Livorno’s recent problems, hinting that failure to beat Ascoli on Wednesday would see a change of direction for the club.


“It is not my intention to put obstacles in the way of the evident wishes of President Spinelli, who I remain eternally grateful to for giving me my first Serie B and top flight Coaching jobs.”


The squad also gave its salute to Donadoni in an official statement released on the club website.


“We wish to express our sincere regrets at Donadoni’s departure, but respect his wishes. Our rapport with the Coach was based on the utmost respect and collaboration, both on a personal and professional level. We take this opportunity to give him our sincere thanks and wish good luck in the rest of his career.”

講野無point的人

馬索尼