Völler back at Roma
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Article summary
Rudi Völler has agreed a one-year contract to take the reins at his former club AS Roma.
Article body
Roma favourite
The former Germany coach scored 45 goals in five seasons with Roma from 1987-92 and admitted that returning to the Serie A club was an offer he could not refuse. "Italy and Rome have always been in my heart," Völler said. "I could not say 'no' to Roma because I love this club. Now I only hope I will be able to give them my best."
Germany disappointment
Völler, 44, takes the job after relinquishing the Germany post following his side's early exit at UEFA EURO 2004™. He had been in charge of the national team since 2000 and led his country to the 2002 FIFA World Cup final against all expectations.
High achiever
The highlight of Völler's playing days came at Roma's Stadio Olimpico in 1990 when he helped West Germany lift the FIFA World Cup. He was part of Roma's Coppa Italia-winning side a year later but the pinnacle of his club career came with Olympique de Marseille in 1993 when he won the UEFA Champions League.
Champions League
Völler will return to Champions League action when Roma start their campaign against FC Dynamo Kyiv on 15 September. Völler's first match in charge will be against ACF Fiorentina three days earlier.