The Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri is clearly a man in touch with his emotions. As his side prepare to face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday knowing that victory would seal the Premier League title, the Italian was shown a video of some of the messages of support from Leicester fans and – not for the first time this season – was nearly moved to tears.
Ranieri, who was appointed to replace Nigel Pearson last summer after a disastrous spell in charge of Greece, has since masterminded Leicester’s unlikely championship charge. They boast a seven-point gap over nearest rivals Tottenham with just three games remaining.
In an interview with TRT World, Ranieri initially seemed reluctant to watch the video of supporters’ messages. But after a few words of encouragement, the 64-year-old soon changed his mind.
“I just wanted to say how fabulous you are,” said ‘Vicky’ from Leicester market. “And what you’ve done for this city is amazing. We all love you.”
The video goes on to feature several more Leicester fans with similar messages to their manager, all of which provoke a smiling reaction from Ranieri. “I literally would hug you if you were here,” added another. “For this city, what you’ve created – the family, the essence of the stadium. It’s fantastic. Follow your home town and believe. Leicester is the testament that if you believe in your dreams, who knows where the fairytale takes you.”
“Thank you so much. Wonderful,” said Ranieri after watching the video. “I make this job because I am very, very happy when the fans and people at the club are happy. All my sacrifice is this, and I love this. And please, give me this [video]. I want it!”
