Roberto Mancini: Italy’s World Cup rescue mission has begun once again. The former European Championship-winning coach returns to the Azzurri dugout after the four-time world champions failed to qualify for the last three FIFA World Cups. Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malagò confirmed Mancini’s appointment on Tuesday, with Claudio Ranieri named as the federation’s new technical director to support the rebuilding effort.
Mancini, 61, returns almost three years after his dramatic exit in August 2023. He had led Italy to European glory in 2021 but resigned unexpectedly before taking charge of Saudi Arabia. Malagò acknowledged the controversial departure but said all factors were considered. “I certainly took it into consideration; I am aware of his recent apologies,” Malagò said, explaining that time was a major factor in choosing Mancini for this Italy World Cup rescue mission.
Mancini’s first stint began in 2018 after Italy missed the World Cup in Russia. He transformed the team, blending experience with youth, and produced a remarkable 37-match unbeaten run. The revival peaked at Euro 2020, where Italy beat England on penalties at Wembley. However, the World Cup heartbreak returned with a shock playoff defeat to North Macedonia in 2022. Mancini remained until his resignation in 2023, later managing Saudi Arabia and Qatar club Al-Sadd.
The new coach faces immediate challenges, with Italy scheduled to face Belgium, Turkey, and France in the Nations League. Malagò warned Mancini will have limited preparation time. “The new coach will have two training sessions to prepare for the first game,” he said. Despite the short runway, Mancini’s return offers hope for an Italy World Cup rescue mission that fans desperately need to see succeed.