Roberto Mancini has been appointed as the new head coach of the Italian national football team, returning to the role he previously held from 2018 until 2023. The announcement, confirmed by Malago, also sees Claudio Ranieri take over as the new technical director, replacing Paolo Maldini. Malago stated that the decision to appoint Mancini was based on a series of considerations for which he takes full responsibility.
The coaching change follows the resignation of Gennaro Gattuso, who stepped down in March after Italy's defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup qualification play-off final. Mancini, who led Italy to the Euro 2020 title, was chosen over former national team coach Antonio Conte. Reports had indicated that Paolo Maldini would have resigned if Mancini were appointed, and he had allegedly favored Thiago Motta for the position. Additionally, Andrea Pirlo, previously considered a candidate, confirmed on Monday that he was no longer in the running, having faced criticism regarding his links to a Russian sports-betting company and concerns over his coaching experience.
Mancini’s return remains a point of contention for some, given his abrupt departure in the summer of 2023 to manage Saudi Arabia while Italy struggled in the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign. He left the Saudi post 14 months later. His tenure will begin with a Nations League match against Belgium on September 25, in a group that also features Turkey and France. Malago noted that the new coach will have only two training sessions to prepare for the opener, while stressing the importance of being realistic about Italy’s prospects in a difficult group.
Italy, a four-time world champion, has not qualified for a World Cup since 2014 and has not won a knockout stage match in the tournament since 2006. Their recent European title defense ended in the last-16 against Switzerland in 2024. Mancini, who also managed Inter Milan to three consecutive Serie A titles and led Manchester City to the 2011-12 Premier League title, now faces the challenge of returning Italy to the top of international football.
The 61-year-old Mancini was previously Italy boss from 2018 until 2023, leading them to the Euro 2020 title.
Mancini's appointment, however, remains divisive despite leading Italy to the Euro 2020 title and a 37-match unbeaten streak.
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