Roberto Mancini Begins Second Italy Spell as Azzurri Seek Fresh Start

Posted : 23 September 2026

Italy are preparing to turn the page under returning coach Roberto Mancini when they begin their UEFA Nations League campaign against Belgium in Rome on Friday.

The Azzurri's return to competitive action comes after their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, their third consecutive absence from the tournament. Mancini, who previously guided Italy to the European Championship title in 2021, was appointed for a second spell in July.

Mancini has made it clear that his focus is on rebuilding Italy rather than dwelling on his previous achievements. Speaking at Coverciano, he said the team must restore itself to the level expected of the national side and stressed his desire to win while developing a strong group for the future.

The appointment followed a turbulent period for Italian football. Gennaro Gattuso left his position after the World Cup qualifying failure, while the federation underwent significant changes. Claudio Ranieri has taken over as technical director and president of Club Italia, while Giovanni Malagò is leading the Italian Football Federation.

The search for Gattuso's successor was also complicated. The federation explored several options, including Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola, before an attempt to appoint Andrea Pirlo collapsed. Paolo Maldini and Leonardo subsequently left their federation roles, paving the way for Mancini's return.

Mancini's comeback has attracted attention because of his previous departure from the Italy job in 2023. He left after failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and subsequently took charge of Saudi Arabia. His return therefore came after a period of criticism from some sections of the Italian football media.

The new-look Italy squad reflects Mancini's intention to assess younger players. His 34-man selection contains nine players receiving their first senior call-ups, including Michael Kayode, Eddy Kouadio, Issa Doumbia, Alessandro Romano, Sebastiano Esposito, Antonio Vergara and Mohamed Alì Zoma.

Mancini has explained that introducing younger players is important for identifying those who can form the core of the national team in the coming years. The coach also has established figures available, including Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alessandro Bastoni, Nicolò Barella and Sandro Tonali.

Belgium will provide Italy with an immediate test when the teams meet at the Stadio Olimpico on September 25. The match is the first of four Nations League fixtures Italy will play within 11 days, with Türkiye, France and Türkiye again following.

The Nations League campaign will give Mancini an early opportunity to evaluate his expanded squad while beginning preparations for Italy's longer-term rebuilding project. After missing another World Cup, the Azzurri now have a new coaching era and a group containing a blend of experienced players and emerging talent.

Roberto Mancini Begins Second Italy Spell as Azzurri Seek Fresh Start

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