FOOTBALL

SCOLARI: I'M NOT JOINING MAN CITY

Scolari insists he's happy in Portugal

Friday May 9,2008

By Julia White for express.co.uk

LUIZ Felipe Scolari has distanced himself from talk he will replace Sven-Goran Eriksson as Manchester City coach at the end of the season.

Scolari, who is gearing up to lead Portugal at Euro 2008 this summer, insists he is happy in his current role and has not agreed to join City.

He told a Portuguese broadcaster: “Portugal offers me everything I need. I have no agreement with [Manchester City].”

The Brazilian added that he respects Eriksson, who has been told by club owner Thaksin Shinawatra his position will be reviewed after the final game of the season on Sunday.

“I like him as a person and as coach. He is a gentleman,” he said.

Meanwhile Eriksson, has held discussions with Portuguese club Benfica but could turn down any offer from his former employers because he believes bigger and better opportunities will come his way.

Benfica issued a statement on Friday confirming they have held initial talks with the Swede, but said they would not reveal any more details until both clubs had finished the season.

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