Mancini’s teammate recalls early struggles and a locked room encounter
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 10, 2026, 11:35 AM
Last updated Nov 10, 2026

Michele Serena discussed his tumultuous early interactions with Italy coach Roberto Mancini during their time at Sampdoria. Serena described Mancini as 'unbearable' initially, leading to a confrontation where he locked Mancini in a room until they addressed their differences. This incident, shared in an interview, highlights their eventual bond and ongoing friendship. Serena also reflected on his experiences with other teammates like Sinisa Mihajlović and Gabriel Batistuta, detailing memorable moments throughout his career.
- •Michele Serena called Mancini 'unbearable' at first.
- •Serena locked Mancini in a room to settle their differences.
- •They went on to build a lasting friendship.
- •Serena played alongside stars like Mihajlović and Batistuta.
- •He reflected on his final game with Inter in 2002.
- 11:35 AMYahoo Sports — Mancini’s former teammate reveals: ‘He was unbearable at first, I locked him in a room’
"Italy coach Roberto Mancini was “unbearable” when they first played together, according to Michele Serena, who says he once locked the Sampdoria star in a room until they sorted out their differen...
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