Mancini returns to rescue a shaken Italy

Roberto Mancini has been officially reappointed as Italy manager, ending a turbulent stretch marked by Andrea Pirlo’s collapsed candidacy and the abrupt departures of Paolo Maldini and Leonardo. FIGC president Giovanni Malagò confirmed the decision on Tuesday, describing Mancini as the only viable choice after Pirlo was vetoed due to his commercial links with a Russian betting firm. The fallout triggered a rapid reshuffle, with Claudio Ranieri named technical director just two weeks after Maldini’s arrival.

Mancini, born in Jesi in 1964, returns for a second spell after leading Italy from 2018 to 2023, a tenure highlighted by Euro 2020 triumph but overshadowed by missing the 2022 World Cup. His comeback follows a period of deep instability within Italian football, including three consecutive failed World Cup qualifications. Malagò insisted the decision was his alone, stressing the need for clarity as Italy attempts to rebuild its identity and restore credibility on the international stage.