Overview
- FIGC confirmed on Wednesday that Roberto Mancini has signed a four-year deal to return as Italy head coach and that Claudio Ranieri will serve as technical director.
- At his first press conference Mancini apologised for quitting in 2023 and pledged to rebuild the team and chase major trophies.
- The appointment follows a turbulent selection process in which Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola declined, Andrea Pirlo’s bid collapsed over ties to a Russian betting firm, and Paolo Maldini and adviser Leonardo resigned.
- Mancini’s first competitive fixtures will be Nations League games starting with Belgium in Rome on September 25, then Turkey and France, giving the new regime an immediate performance test.
- The move leaves the federation divided, raises questions about FIGC governance and commercial vetting, and shifts focus to youth development and club investment in young players if Italy are to regain competitiveness.