Roberto Mancini Returns to Lead Italy Once Again as the Italian Football Federation Ushers in a New Era for the National Team

Italy have officially turned to one of their most successful modern coaches once again, confirming the return of Roberto Mancini as head coach of the national team in a move aimed at restoring stability after another turbulent chapter in the Azzurri’s history.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced Mancini’s appointment following the departure of Gennaro Gattuso, who stepped down after Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The decision marks Mancini’s second spell in charge of the national side, just three years after his surprise resignation in 2023. Alongside his appointment, veteran coach Claudio Ranieri has been named Technical Director of Club Italia to oversee the federation’s long-term football development.

Mancini is no stranger to rebuilding Italian football. He first took over in 2018 after Italy suffered the embarrassment of missing the FIFA World Cup for the first time in six decades. Faced with an ageing squad and declining confidence, he introduced a new generation of players and implemented an attacking style of football that transformed the national team.

His greatest achievement came at UEFA Euro 2020, played in 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Italy defeated England on penalties at Wembley to lift the European Championship, while also setting a then-world record unbeaten run that restored belief among supporters.

However, Mancini’s first tenure was not without disappointment. Italy failed to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup after a shocking play-off defeat to North Macedonia. Although he remained in charge afterwards, he unexpectedly resigned in August 2023 before accepting the Saudi Arabia national team job, a decision that attracted widespread criticism from Italian fans and football officials.

Since leaving Italy, Mancini has managed Saudi Arabia before later taking charge of Qatari club Al Sadd. His return comes at a time when the Italian national team is once again searching for direction after missing a third consecutive FIFA World Cup—a setback that prompted another major overhaul within the federation.

His appointment follows weeks of uncertainty inside Italian football. The federation explored several managerial options before eventually deciding that Mancini’s experience and familiarity with the national team made him the best candidate to lead another rebuilding project. The addition of Claudio Ranieri in a senior technical role is also expected to strengthen the federation’s long-term planning and player development structure.

Speaking after his appointment, Mancini described returning to manage Italy as both an honour and a responsibility, stressing his determination to help the Azzurri regain their place among world football’s elite. FIGC officials also expressed confidence that his experience, combined with Ranieri’s leadership, can guide Italian football into a new era.