Roberto Mancini Returns as Italy Head Coach, Claudio Ranieri Tapped as Technical Director

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has officially announced the appointment of Roberto Mancini as the new head coach of the national team. The 61-year-old returns to the role he previously held from 2018 to 2023. Contract details remain undisclosed, but according to insider Fabrizio Romano, the deal runs through 2030. FIGC president Giovanni Malago confirmed that Mancini made the decision alongside Claudio Ranieri, who will take on the roles of technical director and president of the Italy team. "Roberto Mancini is the new coach, and he shared this decision with Claudio Ranieri," Malago stated. The appointment came after Andrea Pirlo's candidacy was blocked due to his links with a Russian bookmaker, triggering the departure of Paolo Maldini and his advisor Leonardo from the technical director post. Mancini emerged as the top candidate and replaces Gennaro Gattuso, who was sacked following Italy's failed 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. This marks Mancini's second stint in charge of the Azzurri. He led Italy to the Euro 2020 title before moving on to coach Saudi Arabia and Qatari side Al-Sadd. An official presentation is scheduled for tomorrow, July 29, at 6:00 PM, where further details will be revealed.