Roberto Mancini has officially returned as the manager of the Italy national team, stepping into the role following a turbulent search by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), according to recent reports. The appointment brings back the coach who led the Azzurri to glory at Euro 2020, though his return arrives amid significant debate within Italian football regarding his past failure to qualify the squad for the World Cup.
Cesc Fabregas Backs Roberto Mancini Appointment
Como manager Cesc Fabregas has thrown his full support behind Roberto Mancini’s return to the national team dugout, pointing to the 61-year-old manager’s proven winning mentality. Fabregas highlighted Mancini’s tactical pedigree and high standards as exactly what the national squad needs right now, according to statements reported by Football Italia.
“I always liked Mancini, I also followed him when he was still at Manchester City,” Fabregas stated, as cited by Football Italia. “I have spoken to him a few times, he is a winner, he is demanding, and he plays good football. He proved how to do it when winning the European Championship.”
FIGC Restructures Leadership Alongside Mancini
The Italian Football Federation moved quickly to stabilize leadership after missing out on primary managerial targets. According to sports reports, the FIGC initially pursued Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, but failed to reach agreements with either high-profile boss. Andrea Pirlo also emerged as a strong candidate to lead Gli Azzurri, but that potential appointment fell through due to his role as a gambling ambassador, a development that subsequently prompted high-profile departures from Paolo Maldini and Leonardo within the federation.
To shore up the technical hierarchy, the FIGC appointed Claudio Ranieri as Technical Director to work directly alongside Mancini. Federation officials hope this pairing can revitalize a national program that suffered the setback of missing three consecutive World Cup tournaments during its recent cycle.
Pro and Con Reactions to the New Manager
Reactions to Mancini’s reappointment remain deeply divided across Italian football media. Supporters argue that his extensive international experience and familiarity with the setup provide the quickest path to recovery. Detractors, however, view the decision as a step backward, pointing directly to his previous inability to secure a World Cup qualification berth during his 2018-2023 tenure.
Did you know? Roberto Mancini previously managed the Italy national team from 2018 to 2023, during which time he captured the Euro 2020 championship before stepping down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new manager of the Italy national team?
Roberto Mancini has returned as the head coach of Italy, appointed by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
Who is working alongside Roberto Mancini in the federation?
Claudio Ranieri has been appointed as the Technical Director by the FIGC to support Mancini.
What major trophy did Roberto Mancini win with Italy?
Mancini led the Italy national team to victory at the European Championship (Euro 2020).
What did Como manager Cesc Fabregas say about Mancini?
According to Football Italia, Fabregas praised Mancini as a demanding winner who plays good football and possesses the necessary pedigree to lead the national team.
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