Roberto Mancini is the new favorite to coach Italy.

Roberto Mancini is returning to lead the Italian National Team, according to several reliable sources, including the respected journalist Gianluca Di Marzio. The return of the 61-year-old coach is viewed as a matter of “formality,” opening a new chapter for the Azzurri following a turbulent period.

Mancini, who led Italy from 2018 to 2023, won the European Championship in 2021 but saw the dream of the World Cup fade the following year with the failure to qualify for the sport’s biggest tournament. His departure paved the way for Gennaro Gattuso, who ultimately resigned in March 2023 after failing to secure qualification for the World Cup. Silvio Baldini, who was then the coach of the under-21 team, took over on an interim basis, leading the team to two 1-0 victories in friendly matches against Luxembourg and Greece.


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However, this solution was temporary. Baldini is expected to return to his duties with the Azzurrini as soon as the new head coach is officially announced. That choice is reportedly Roberto Mancini, with confirmation also coming from transfer expert Niccolò Schira, who reveals a contract until 2030 with an annual salary of around 2 million euros.

Mancini’s departure from the role of Saudi Arabia’s national team coach in 2023 was brief, lasting less than a year at the helm of the Saudi squad. The coach does not hide his regret over the decision to leave the Italian national team, publicly admitting that it was a mistake.

This return comes at a time when the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is preparing for presidential elections scheduled for June 22, 2026. Giovanni Malagò, the frontrunner for the presidency, maintains a close relationship with Mancini, which further strengthens the possibility of the former Manchester City coach and Sampdoria icon’s return.

The official announcement of Mancini’s return is expected in the coming weeks, with the coach preparing to restart the mission of leading Italy to the top of world football, at a time when the country seeks to regain lost prestige and ensure solid appearances in major international competitions.

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