Ciro Immobile reflects on retirement and new role with Italy Under-16s

Former Lazio striker Ciro Immobile has transitioned into a new role as the head of delegation for the Italian National Under-16 team. In a series of interviews with Corriere della Sera, the 36-year-old reflected on his recent retirement from professional football, describing the decision as a matter of respect for himself and his performance, noting that he felt like a ‘Rolls Royce that no longer ran as before.’

Immobile discussed his departure from Lazio, maintaining that he held a ‘father-son’ relationship with club president Claudio Lotito until the end. He also praised former coach Simone Inzaghi for his human qualities and expressed his support for Roberto Mancini’s leadership of the Italian national team, stating that Mancini’s ability to build a cohesive group is already yielding visible results.

Looking toward the future, Immobile expressed an ambition to eventually pursue a coaching career, suggesting he would like to be in a position similar to Mancini’s within the next ten years. In his current capacity with the Under-16s, he aims to mentor young players by teaching them the importance of professional values, social interaction, and respect for the jersey.