Julio Cruz admits he was “a bit surprised” when journalists told him Roberto Mancini had announced he was leaving Inter.

The Coach made the shock statement in the newspaper conference with the Italian Press, insisting he had already told the players, but Cruz painted a different picture.

“I have to say I was a bit surprised. He didn’t say anything about it in the locker room. It is evidently his decision, but we have just been eliminated from the Champions League and everyone is disappointed.”

The announcement came after a 1-0 home defeat to Liverpool knocked the Nerazzurri out of the Champions League, 3-0 on aggregate.

“We never considered he would make this decision. We had prepared well for this match and hoped it would end differently. The important thing is from tomorrow to continue doing what we have up until now in Serie A and put this elimination behind us.”

“I think we had a great first half and played well, testing their goalkeeper. With the man down our fitness levels dropped after the break and we are sorry for the fans who gave us so much support.”