Roberto Mancini has been reappointed as Italy’s head coach for a second time, following the abrupt withdrawal of Andrea Pirlo from consideration and the resignation of technical director Paolo Maldini.
Gattuso’s departure earlier this year after the team failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup left the Azzurri in need of leadership, and the federation turned to the former Euro 2020 winner who previously managed the side from 2018 to 2023.
Mancini’s record includes a 37‑game unbeaten run, a solid run to the 2022 World Cup playoffs (though they ultimately lost to North Macedonia), and a triumphant Euro 2020 campaign where Italy beat England in the final. He resigned in August 2023, leaving the role open until now.
The FIGC confirmed that following Pirlo’s pull‑out due to controversy over a Russian betting company connection, they deemed Mancini the best fit for the job. Claudio Ranieri will replace Maldini as technical director.
Mancini has a storied career at club level, winning the Premier League with Manchester City, Serie A titles with Inter Milan, and making memorable runs with Lazio and Sampdoria. His stints overseas include time with Galatasaray, Zenit St Petersburg, Saudi Arabia’s national team, and Al Sadd in Qatar.
Italy will kick off their Nations League campaign on 25 September with a home match against Belgium, followed by a trip to Turkey three days later. With Mancini back at the helm, the federation hopes to rebuild confidence and return the team to World Cup contention.
