In brief
Roberto Mancini has been reappointed as Italy’s manager for a second time, the move coming a day after former midfielder Andrea Pirlo withdrew from consideration due to his alleged ties with a Russian betting firm. Paolo Maldini resigned as technical director following Pirlo’s exit, prompting the appointment of former Leicester City chief Claudio Ranieri. The federation’s president, Giovanni Malago, hails Mancini as the best fit to steer the national side. Mancini, who guided Italy to a record 37‑game unbeaten streak and won Euro 2020, was initially replaced by Gennaro Gattuso in 2023 after a failure to qualify for the World Cup. The new coaching arrangement comes as Italy eye its Nations League campaign, aiming to break a three‑year drought from World Cup finals.
Roberto Mancini has been reappointed as Italy’s coach for a second time.
Mancini’s return follows Andrea Pirlo’s sudden withdrawal amid allegations of his ties to a Russian betting firm, and the resignation of technical director Paolo Maldini, who stepped aside after the decision to reject Pirlo.
The Italian Football Federation’s president, Giovanni Malago, praised Mancini as “the best person to become head coach,” underscoring the confidence placed in his leadership after a record 37‑game unbeaten streak and a Euro 2020 triumph.
Claudio Ranieri, known for leading Leicester City to the 2015‑16 Premier League title, will replace Maldini as technical director. Ranieri’s appointment is expected to bolster the support structure around the national team.
Gennaro Gattuso left his role in April after Italy failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup. The organisation’s decision to reappoint Mancini aims to restore stability and build toward future international tournaments, starting with the Nations League fixtures against Belgium and Turkey.
