After 20 months as manager, Inter Milan have exonerated Roberto Mancini. This follows abysmal results in preseason friendlies, involving a crushing 6-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, and general disagreement on summer transfer market priorities with the Italian club’s new Chinese investors.

Mancini took over as Inter boss after Watford’s Walter Mazzarri failed to replicate his Napoli successes in Milan. The former Galatasaray and Manchester City who had then rejoined the Nerazzurri for a second stint showed promise last season when Inter comfortably occupied the Serie A’s top spot.

However, defensive performances and disagreements with players such as Adem Ljajic and Stefan Jovetic ultimately had a resonating effect on the latter half of Inter’s season where they concluded with the fourth spot.

Known for differences in opinion with former employers, the Italian wasn’t pleased in the manner the Antonio Candreva was conducted, particularly the time he had to endure. The Suning Group also refused to bring Yaya Toure and Roma’s latest signing Thomas Vermaelen, citing the importance of nurturing young, up-and-coming talent.

With only two weeks left to Serie A kick-off, Inter club delegates are now thinking of appointing former Ajax boss, Frank de Boer, as head coach.