Mancini Returns to Italy With Heartfelt Apology: 'It Was Like Losing the Woman of My Life'

Roberto Mancini didn't hold back at his first press conference since returning as Italy head coach. He opened with an emotional apology to everyone - fans, players, and the federation. "I'm very sorry. It was like losing the woman of your life. That's when you realize you did something you never should have done. So I'm sorry, deeply sorry for everything that happened in these three years. I will try to bring the national team back where it belongs," said the 61-year-old coach. He acknowledged that walking away in 2023 for a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia was the biggest mistake of his career. Mancini dismissed rumors of a fallout with then-FIGC president Gabriele Gravina, taking full responsibility: "It was entirely my fault due to poor communication." On September 25, Italy will face Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome in the Nations League. Mancini knows some fans won't forgive him for leaving for money and expects jeers from the stands. "I hope the team plays well enough that maybe people will forgive me," he said. Despite Italy failing to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup, Mancini is optimistic about the squad. He sees strong potential in young players: "I don't think we're in such bad shape. We have plenty of options between center forwards and wingers. I gave Kean his debut, so I know him very well." He plans to rely on experienced players like Nicolò Barella and Gianluigi Donnarumma, as well as players he previously introduced, such as Nicolò Zaniolo. Along with new technical director Claudio Ranieri, Mancini promises to shift focus from rigid tactics to developing individual technical skills.