In brief
Roberto Mancini has returned as Italy’s manager, succeeding Gennaro Gattuso and following a chaotic period that saw former coach Andrea Pirlo withdraw amid betting‑company controversies. FIGC president Giovanni Malago publicly endorsed Mancini’s appointment, citing confidence in his experience. Earlier this month technical director Paolo Maldini stepped down after resigning following Pirlo’s defection. Mancini previously led Italy to a record 37‑game unbeaten streak and Euro 2020 victory, though he failed to secure the 2022 World Cup and resigned in August 2023. Italy’s Nations League campaign begins on 25 September against Belgium.
Roberto Mancini has been named again as head coach of the Italy national team. He takes over a role that saw a brief interim period after Gennaro Gattuso left the position in April. The appointment follows the unexpected exit of former captain Andrea Pirlo, who pulled out of the job following a controversy over his ties to a Russian betting company.
FIGC president Giovanni Malago said the federation was confident that Mancini was the best candidate. Earlier, technical director Paolo Maldini resigned after his brief appointment a week before, and former defender Leonardo stepped down in a joint resignation that followed Pirlo’s withdrawal.
Mancini previously managed Italy from 2018 to 2023, guiding the Azzurri to a seven‑year unbeaten run and a Euro 2020 title. He left the role in August after failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup. Italy have been absent from World Cup finals since 2014, and the team will first test Mancini’s tactics in the UEFA Nations League against Belgium on 25 September.
