Roberto Mancini is once again tasked with rebuilding Italy, with the former European Cup-winning coach returning to the Azzurri as the four-time world champions look to end their shocking World Cup drought.Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malago confirmed the appointment of Mancini as Italy’s new head coach on Tuesday, while former Italy midfielder Claudio Ranieri was appointed as the federation’s technical director.The decision comes after a tumultuous period for Italian football, with the national team failing to qualify for the past three World Cups. The crisis deepened when former coach Gattuso and Italian Football Federation president Gabriel Gravina resigned in April after Italy’s latest qualifying defeat.
Mancini returns three years after dramatic exit
Mancini’s return marks a surprising comeback almost three years after he left the national team in August 2023. The 61-year-old led Italy to European glory in 2021 before unexpectedly resigning two weeks later, before taking charge of Saudi Arabia.Malago admitted Mancini’s departure was controversial but said all factors had been considered before bringing him back.“Obviously, all the necessary assessments have been done,” Malago said when asked about Mancini’s exit. “I certainly took that into account; I’m aware of his recent apology and, obviously, everyone has made appropriate assessments.”Explaining the decision, the Italian Football Federation president said time was a major factor in selecting Mancini.“Time is running out… I believe that Roberto Mancini should be the new head coach of Italy for many reasons,” Marago said.Mancini and Ranieri are expected to address the media together at the official conference.
The men of Resurrection Italy once again go on a rescue mission
In 2018, the Azzurri suffered the humiliation of missing out on the World Cup in Russia, and Mancini coached the Italian team for the first time. He inherited a team that was searching for an identity and transformed it by blending experienced players with emerging talent.Under Mancini, the Italian team became one of the most attractive teams in Europe, creating an impressive 37-game unbeaten streak, which was a world record at the time.This resurgence culminated at Euro 2020, where Italy beat England on penalties at Wembley to lift the trophy and restore national pride.However, the sorrow of the World Cup soon returned. In the 2022 play-off semi-finals, the Italian team lost 0-1 at home to North Macedonia and missed the World Cup in Qatar.Despite the setback, Mancini remained in charge before abruptly resigning in 2023. After leaving Saudi Arabia in 2024, he most recently coached Qatari club Al Sadd before departing last month.
The road ahead for Mancini will not be easy
Ahead of Mancini’s return, Italy explored a number of options, including Andrea Pirlo, while also approaching the likes of Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, but turned down the opportunity. Former Italy coach Antonio Conte is another candidate.The new coach will face an imminent challenge, with Italy scheduled to face Belgium, Türkiye and France in the Nations League.Malago warned Mancini that he had limited time to prepare his team.“The new coach will have two training sessions to prepare for the first game,” he said.He added that Italy cannot expect an immediate transformation against some of Europe’s strongest teams.
