Roberto Mancini Returns as Italy Coach to Lead Azzurri Rebuild

Posted : 28 July 2026

Roberto Mancini has been appointed head coach of Italy's national team for a second spell, with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) turning back to the Euro 2020-winning manager in a bid to restore the country's fortunes after a prolonged period of disappointment. FIGC president Giovanni Malago confirmed the appointment, while Claudio Ranieri was named the federation's new technical director following the departure of Paolo Maldini.

The coaching change follows Gennaro Gattuso's resignation after Italy's defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup qualification play-off, a result that extended the Azzurri's absence from football's biggest tournament to three consecutive editions. Malago said Mancini was the right choice to guide the national team into a fresh chapter, adding that he would explain the federation's vision alongside Ranieri at an official presentation.

Mancini, 61, previously managed Italy from 2018 to 2023, overseeing one of the most successful periods in recent history. He guided the Azzurri to the UEFA Euro 2020 title and assembled a record 37-match unbeaten run before stepping down in 2023 to accept the Saudi Arabia coaching job. He most recently managed Qatari side Al Sadd before agreeing to return to the national team.

His appointment came after several alternative candidates were considered. Antonio Conte and Andrea Pirlo were linked with the position, but Pirlo later withdrew from contention, while internal disagreements over the federation's direction contributed to Maldini's exit. Ranieri's arrival as technical director is expected to provide experienced leadership as Italy attempts to rebuild both its senior team and long-term football structure.

Mancini's second tenure begins with a difficult challenge. Italy's opening fixture under his renewed leadership will be a UEFA Nations League clash against Belgium on 25 September in a group that also features France and Turkey. With only limited preparation time available, the veteran coach faces immediate pressure to improve results while protecting Italy's UEFA ranking.

Despite delivering European Championship glory in his first spell, Mancini remains a divisive figure following his unexpected resignation in 2023. Nevertheless, the federation believes his experience at both international and club level—including league titles with Inter Milan and Manchester City—makes him the ideal candidate to guide the four-time world champions back among football's elite after more than a decade without a World Cup appearance.

Roberto Mancini Returns as Italy Coach to Lead Azzurri Rebuild

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics