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Roberto Mancini has returned as head coach of Italy’s national team for a second spell, with the former European champions hoping he can restore the Azzurri’s place among football’s elite after three consecutive World Cup absences.
Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malago confirmed Mancini’s appointment on Tuesday, announcing a major restructuring of the national team’s leadership.
Former technical director Roberto Maldini has been replaced by Claudio Ranieri, ending weeks of speculation over Italy’s next coaching direction.
“Today we have a new coach and a new technical director,” Malago told reporters, adding that Mancini was the preferred choice after careful consideration.
“I felt that the person who should be and become the Italian national football team’s head coach was Roberto Mancini, for a whole series of considerations for which, as always, I honestly take responsibility,” he said.
Mancini, 61, previously managed Italy from 2018 to 2023, guiding the team to European Championship glory at Euro 2020 and overseeing a record 37-match unbeaten run. However, his reputation among some FIGC officials was affected after he unexpectedly resigned in 2023 while Italy were struggling during their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
His departure came before he took charge of Saudi Arabia, where he stayed for 14 months before leaving the role. He most recently managed Qatari club Al-Sadd after signing a two-year contract last November.
The appointment comes after Gennaro Gattuso stepped down as Italy coach following the team’s World Cup qualification play-off final defeat by Bosnia and Herzegovina in March.
Mancini was chosen ahead of other candidates, including former Italy manager Antonio Conte. Andrea Pirlo, another name linked with the role, withdrew from consideration on Monday.
The return of Mancini has divided opinion, with critics questioning his decision to leave the national team during a difficult period. Supporters, however, point to his achievements, including Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph and his success at club level.
Italy have struggled on the global stage in recent years, failing to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and missing out on the 2026 tournament. The four-time world champions have not reached a World Cup knockout match since their 2006 victory over France.
Mancini now faces the task of rebuilding confidence around the Azzurri and guiding the team back towards international success.
Beyond his achievements with Italy, Mancini has also enjoyed a decorated club career. He won three consecutive Serie A titles with Inter Milan between 2005 and 2008 and led Manchester City to their first Premier League title in 2012 with a dramatic final-day victory over Queens Park Rangers.
