Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has revealed he
rejected an offer to return to Juventus earlier this year.
Juventus made their move for Trapattoni following the sacking
of Ciro Ferrara at the end of January.
In the end Juve appointed former AC Milan coach Alberto
Zaccheroni as their manager until the end of the season.
Trapattoni is a big fans' favourite at Juve having managed
the club for 10 years between 1976-1986, leading them to six Serie
A titles and a European Cup success during his tenure.
The 71-year-old admits he reluctantly had to reject the
invitation from Juventus as he is focused on guiding the Republic
of Ireland for the 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."
