Whitecaps FC interim head coach Vanni Sartini has endeared himself to B.C. sports fans since taking the MLS club’s reins on Aug. 27.

The animated Italian bench boss has guided the club to its first playoff berth in four years, using bold tactics, a host of different lineups and fiery motivational speeches to spark the turnaround.

Vancouver, which tied Seattle 1-1 on the last day of the regular season to sneak into the post-season, was near the bottom of MLS standings when Sartini stepped in and is 7-2-5 since his arrival. Sporting Kansas City (17-10-7) will play host to Vancouver (12--9-13) on Nov. 20, a 2 p.m. start.

Covered in the interview: Sartini said the Caps will win in Kansas City. Was that a guarantee? Does he care how his brash style will be received? How many espresso does he drink in a day? Any skeletons from the past that may keep him from taking the full-time job? What are his thoughts on the soccer system in B.C., which will add League1 BC and Rivers FC next year? Has Whitecaps brass instructed him on how to deal with media? Where does his passion for the game/gioia di vivere come from?