Roberto Mancini Officially Appointed New Italy Coach for Second Stint

Roberto Mancini has officially returned as the head coach of the Italian national football team, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced. This marks Mancini's second spell leading the Gli Azzurri.

Mancini's previous tenure saw him guide Italy to a memorable victory in the Euro 2020 final against England. However, his time was also marked by the significant disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup after a playoff loss to North Macedonia.

During his first stint, which lasted from July 1, 2018, to August 13, 2023, Mancini managed 58 matches, achieving an average of 2.17 points per game. His return comes after coaching Saudi Arabia, where his performance was deemed unsuccessful, leading to his dismissal, and a subsequent departure from Qatar club Al Sadd in June 2026.

The FIGC also announced Claudio Ranieri as the new technical director, filling the void left by Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo, who resigned after just 10 days in their roles. Maldini and Leonardo's departures were reportedly linked to President Giovanni Malago's opposition to Andrea Pirlo potentially taking the coaching role, citing Pirlo's connection to Russia.