Roberto Mancini rules himself out of taking Man United job as he focuses on Italy

Roberto Mancini has rejected claims he has a 'verbal agreement' to become the next manager of Manchester United.

The Italy coach, who managed Manchester City between 2009 and 2013, has been linked with the Old Trafford job when Ralf Rangnick's interim spell comes to an end next summer.

But Mancini, 57, insists his only focus is on next year's World Cup in Qatar. European champions Italy must negotiate a play-off in March to qualify with a semi-final with North Macedonia followed by a meeting with either Portugal or Turkey.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Mancini said: 'A verbal agreement with a Premier League club? All false.

'My only goal is to get to the World Cup and be able to win it.'

Rangnick has taken over as United's interim manager following the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last month.

The German coach, who will stay on for two years at the club as a consultant afterwards, made a winning start on Sunday as United beat Crystal Palace 1-0.

Mancini arrived as a shock candidate for the full-time gig last week. His City team memorably pipped United to the Premier League title in the 2011-12 season thanks to Sergio Aguero's stoppage time winner on the final day.

Reports said United believed they could still convince Mancini to join them regardless of Italy reaching the World Cup, which is to be staged next November.

Mancini delivered the European Championship over the summer, beating England on penalties in the Wembley final, and is contracted until 2026.

On what promises to be a tricky qualifying play-off, Mancini said: 'Things didn't go so well in the qualifying round but we have to accept that.

'We have to roll up our sleeves and start again.

'We still have a chance. Of course, the draw was not beautiful but we are the champions of Europe and we can win the first game and then play the final play-off.'