Italy have turned back to Roberto Mancini in an effort to revive the national team, with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirming his return as head coach.

FIGC president Giovanni Malagò announced the decision on Tuesday, revealing that Mancini will replace Gennaro Gattuso, who stepped down in April after Italy failed to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup.

Mancini is no stranger to the role. He previously managed Italy between 2018 and 2023, guiding the Azzurri to the UEFA Euro 2020 title after a penalty shootout victory over England at Wembley Stadium.

During his first tenure, he oversaw 58 international matches before leaving the position. His coaching career has also included successful spells with Inter Milan, Fiorentina and Manchester City, where he delivered the club’s first Premier League title during the 2011-12 season.

FIGC president explains the decision

Speaking after confirming the appointment, Malagò made it clear why the federation chose to bring Mancini back.

“Mancini is the coach. I believed that the best person to become head coach was Roberto Mancini,” said Malago.

The appointment comes during a period of major change within Italian football as the federation looks to rebuild following another disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign.

Claudio Ranieri takes over as technical director

Alongside the coaching appointment, the FIGC also confirmed Claudio Ranieri as the new technical director. The experienced 74-year-old succeeds Paolo Maldini, who resigned from the role earlier this week.

Ranieri will oversee technical planning and elite football development across Italy’s national team structure, helping shape the long-term direction of the Azzurri.

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Malagò explained why it was important to appoint both a coach and a technical director together. “I needed someone with whom I could share the decision on the coach, because without that shared view my reasoning would have carried little weight.”

“So consequently, we have a new coach and a new technical director for Italy,” he also added.

Leadership changes follow recent turmoil

The latest appointments come after significant changes inside the federation. Former technical director Paolo Maldini and his advisor Leonardo resigned after Andrea Pirlo’s proposed appointment as Italy coach was blocked because of concerns surrounding the former midfielder’s commercial ties to a Russian betting company.

Paolo Maldini and Leonardo
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Paolo Maldini and Leonardo | X [Bleacher Report Football]

Before turning to Mancini, the FIGC had also explored the possibility of appointing Pep Guardiola. However, the Manchester City manager declined the opportunity last month.

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With Roberto Mancini back on the touchline and Claudio Ranieri now overseeing technical development, Italy begins another rebuilding phase as it aims to restore stability and guide the national team back to the FIFA World Cup.

FAQs

Why has Roberto Mancini returned as Italy head coach?

Roberto Mancini was reappointed by the FIGC to lead Italy after Gennaro Gattuso stepped down following the team’s failure to qualify for a third straight FIFA World Cup.

What role will Claudio Ranieri have with Italy?

Claudio Ranieri has been appointed as Italy’s technical director and will oversee technical operations and elite football development across the national team setup.