Spalletti staying at Zenit

(GSM) – Zenit St. Petersburg manager Luciano Spalletti has distanced himself from a move to Internazionale should Rafael Benítez’s departure from Giuseppe Meazza be confirmed.

Confusion has mounted over the future of the Spaniard at the European champions, with conflicting reports over Inter’s decision to sack him.

But despite possible vacancy of the managerial post at Inter, former Roma boss Spalletti, who had emerged as a favorite to replace Benítez, has denied speculation that he is set to return to Italy.

Zenit general director Maxim Mitrofanov has assured that the 51-year-old Italian manager has no plans to quit his job in Russia.

“Spalletti himself had told us that he would stay at Zenit at least for another season,” Mitrofanov told reporters.

“I think that is more than enough for us to trust him. Spalletti is unique. It would be simply impossible for him to deceive or lie to us about his future plans.”

Former Inter goalkeeper Walter Zenga, who is currently managing Saudi-based club Al Nasr, has been tipped to replace Benítez.

Other candidates for the job include former Milan boss Leonardo and England manager Fabio Capello, although the latter is unlikely to accept an offer from Inter, having assured that he will retire after Euro 2012.