Italy has turned back to one of its most successful recent managers, with Roberto Mancini appointed as the new head coach of the national football team as the Azzurri look to rebuild after another major international disappointment. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed Mancini’s return on Tuesday, nearly three years after his controversial departure from the role. The 61-year-old Mancini previously guided Italy to European Championship glory in 2021, ending a long wait for a major international trophy. Under his leadership, the Azzurri produced a remarkable unbeaten run and defeated England in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley, restoring confidence in Italian football after years of struggles.

However, Mancini’s first spell ended unexpectedly in August 2023 when he resigned as Italy coach. Just two weeks later, he accepted the role of manager of Saudi Arabia’s national team, a move that sparked criticism among Italian football supporters and officials. Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malagò announced Mancini’s appointment on Tuesday, saying the decision was made after considering several factors, including the urgent need to find an experienced coach capable of leading the team through a difficult period.

“Time was running out … I believed the person who should become the new coach of Italy is Roberto Mancini, for a whole list of reasons,” Malagò said. He added that Mancini and newly appointed technical director Claudio Ranieri would address the media at a press conference following the announcement. Mancini’s return comes after a turbulent period for the national team. Italy failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the third consecutive edition, extending a painful run that began after missing the 2018 tournament in Russia. The latest setback came after the team lost its playoff tie against Bosnia and Herzegovina, leading to major changes within the federation.

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The defeat resulted in the departures of FIGC president Gabriele Gravina and Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso in April. The federation has since focused on restructuring the national team setup, with former Italy star Paolo Maldini briefly appointed before stepping down just 16 days later. Alongside Mancini’s appointment, Malagò confirmed that Claudio Ranieri will take over as the federation’s technical director. The experienced coach, known for his successful managerial career across Europe, will oversee broader football development and provide support to the national team structure.

Questions remain over Mancini’s previous exit and whether trust can be fully restored between the coach and the federation. Addressing concerns about his sudden resignation in 2023, Malagò said the matter had been considered carefully and noted that Mancini had offered apologies for his decision. Mancini now faces the difficult task of rebuilding an Italy side that has struggled to maintain consistency since its European Championship triumph. His immediate priority will be restoring confidence, identifying new talent, and preparing the team for future international competitions as the Azzurri attempt to return among football’s elite nations.

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