Former West Ham player Paolo Di Canio has revealed that he has rejected a lucrative offer to return to the game, it has been reported.

The controversial Italian, who became a cult hero in the east end of London after making 118 appearances for our Hammers, and at that time became our clubs record Premier League goalscorer – which was then taken over by Michail Antonio in 2021, has been out of the management game since leaving his post at Sunderland back in 2013.

Prior to the taking the hot seat Di Canio experienced a playing career that certainly was never dull, from incredible skills, pushing a referee, scoring a winner at Old Trafford, demanding to be substituted and scoring one of the best Premier League goals in history – it really was a roller coaster time and one many Irons fans remember fondly.

Since hanging up his boots, Di Canio continued his passionate and headline making manners into the world of management, with stints at both Swindon Town and Sunderland – again showcasing his desire to win with memorable moments of the former striker not hiding his feelings on the touchline.

However it has now been 10 years since Di Canio was in the game, with plenty of rumours over the years linking him with returns, even at times to West Ham – although to-date none have those have come to fruition.

Di Canio though is reportedly still keeping his options open, and is particular about his next post, even admitting he has turned down a lucrative offer to work alongside former Manchester City and Italy manager Roberto Mancini, it has been reported by London World.

“I didn’t just say no to oil money, because it would have been an important experience in an environment that wants to grow and establish itself, like I do myself,” said Di Canio.

“Roberto Mancini didn’t offer me a minor role, he wanted me as a second coach on the pitch to train and improve the players. His courtship made me proud, especially given that we aren’t particularly close: a few games of Padel, a chat and not a lot more, so if he thought about me, it’s because he believes in my ideas and my work.

“If I’m just sitting on the bench for wages, I don’t go.”