The Inter boss has publicly criticized doctors' dealing with non-serious injuries, as he was particularly upset by the lengthy layoff of some of his team members.

"Apart from certain very serious injuries, I think conditions can be healed much more quickly as I have experienced them as a player," Mancini told Sky Sport Italia.

"Players have more trouble returning than before, but it’s not their fault. Now the doctors stop them all the time. The doctors have got worse, in my opinion."

Inter missed key midfield duo Dejan Stankovic and Patrick Vieira for long spells this season, and the latter's injury problems have been particularly irritating for Mancini.

FIGC reaction

However, Mancini's comments were met by a swift reaction from the Italian Federation (FIGC), which may be taking action against the outspoken coach.

A statement from the FIGC read: "The federal prosecutor has opened an investigation into Mancini’s comments about the work of club doctors."

Apart from the FIGC's reaction, Mancini's claims were not welcomed by the Italy medical staff as well.

"I don’t think that Mancini showed much sensitivity or courtesy towards the game’s medics," Italy doctor Enrico Castellacci said.

"The same doctors have been attacked for rushing players back in the past.

"Medicine is a serious business, perhaps more than the game itself. If doctors are paying more attention to players’ health then maybe it’s a good thing that they are getting worse."