DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR

Last updated : 01 June 2007 By Ed

Claudio Ranieri seems a step closer to the job at Wastelands after quitting as Parma boss.

"Claudio Ranieri has informed the club of his intention to leave his role as first-team coach," reads a Parma in a statement. "The club would like to thank him for the precious work he carried out, which resulted in keeping Parma in Serie A."

However he seems to get a bit carried away when talking about City's future.

"The Manchester City challenge reminds me of the experience I had at Chelsea where without spending one pound, we built a good team," Ranieri told Gazzetta dello Sport. "I created the Chelsea miracle from nothing. My achievement convinced (Roman) Abramovich to buy the club. Then, mountains of money came as well as a selection of top players."

Juve are also reported to be interested in Ranieri for next season.