Former Barcelona captain Carles Puyol has spoken of rejecting a move to Inter Milan.
Roberto Mancini was keen for Puyol to become his assistant coach.
“I received an offer that surprised and honoured me, but when I decided to hang up my boots, I needed time to relax," said the legendary defender.
“I could've accepted the role of director of sport at Barcelona, but I still had to get used to the fact I was no longer a football player in activity.
“I wanted to play until the age of 41 like Paolo Maldini, but my knee had other ideas."