Mateo Kovacic and Andrea Ranocchia were on target to secure a 2-0 victory away to 10-man Chievo, the coach’s first league win since returning
Roberto Mancini spoke of his delight at picking up his first Serie A win following his return to Inter.
The Nerazzurri beat Chievo 2-0 on Monday through goals from Mateo Kovacic and Andrea Ranocchia to bring an end to a five-game winless streak in the league.
The San Siro outfit had lost two and drawn one in Serie A under Mancini since he replaced Walter Mazzarri at the helm in November and the coach was thrilled to secure his first domestic victory over a home side who had Ruben Botta sent off late on.
“It is an important victory and it means that our confidence continues to grow,” he told reporters.
“Despite the difficulties in the match, we ran out victorious and kept a clean sheet to boot. I’m satisfied.
“Right now, the 4-3-1-2 formation is a system that can come in useful. I believe that without two wingers on the outside the team is a lot more dangerous and balanced.”
Mauro Icardi headed the ball down to Kovacic to slam home from close range for the opening goal and the former Manchester City boss was full of praise for the Argentine, who has now scored eight and set up two in 14 league appearances.
Mancini continued: “Chievo were very disciplined and there wasn’t much space at all. Icardi is a young guy and has bags of quality. We will work hard together and things will improve.”
The 50-year-old coach also spoke highly of Fredy Guarin, Kovacic and Gary Medel.
“We want to move forward and play at a high level,” said Mancini.
“Slowly but surely, we are improving at the back. The defence did extremely well today. Medel, for instance, runs his socks off and is a very important player for us.
“Guarin is an experienced player, whilst Kovacic has the potential to become a great midfielder. He is still young and must learn to defend, but he really can become a complete midfield player.”