Former Manchester City and Inter Milan manager Mancini named Italy head coach
Roberto Mancini will once again be in charge of the Italian national team, with Gennaro Gattuso stepping down after failing to qualify for this year's World Cup. The former manager returns following a successful Euro 2021 campaign and will now have Claudio Ranieri by his side as technical director.
Mancini led Italy from June 2018 to July 2023, managing 58 matches in total, including the memorable 2023 final against Spain. His return comes at a crucial time for Italian football as they prepare for Euro 2024 and the next World Cup.
During his first spell, Mancini achieved notable success, reaching the UEFA Nations League finals and securing top-three finishes in consecutive qualifying cycles – achievements that earned him the role. The FIGC president Giovanni Malagò affirmed his choice: 'Mancini is the coach.'
Ranieri will oversee player development and coaching strategy, taking over from Paolo Maldini after he and Leonardo resigned following an external review.Why did Gattuso step down as head coach?
Gennaro Gattuso resigned in April after Italy failed to qualify for the 2023 World Cup. His tenure saw a slow start to Euro 2024 qualifying, leading to his departure and Mancini's appointment.
What does Mancini bring back to the Italian team?
Rather than sticking with the established style, Mancini’s second spell aims to address where the team faltered. He returns with experience from club management at Inter Milan, Manchester City, and Fiorentina, with a particular focus now on technical director Claudio Ranieri alongside him.