Roberto Mancini is currently a free agent following his departure from the Saudi Arabia national team, though he is not currently linked to a return as Italy’s head coach. While recent reports have speculated on a potential reunion with the Azzurri, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) continues to support Luciano Spalletti, who has been in charge since August 2023.
Why did Roberto Mancini leave his previous position?
Roberto Mancini’s tenure as the head coach of the Saudi Arabia national team ended on October 24, 2024, by mutual agreement. According to an official statement from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), the decision followed a period of inconsistent results.
Mancini had been under significant pressure after the team struggled during the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign. His departure came shortly after a 0-0 draw against Bahrain, which left Saudi Arabia trailing in their qualifying group. Mancini, who previously led Italy to victory at UEFA Euro 2020, signed a lucrative contract with the Saudi federation in August 2023 but failed to replicate his international success in the Gulf, managing only 8 wins in 20 matches.
Is a return to the Italy national team possible?
There is currently no evidence to suggest that Roberto Mancini is in negotiations to return to the Italy bench. The position is held by Luciano Spalletti, who took over after Mancini’s surprise resignation in August 2023.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has maintained stability under Spalletti, who is tasked with rebuilding the squad following their failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and a disappointing Round of 16 exit at Euro 2024. Despite the historical significance of Mancini’s Euro 2020 triumph, FIGC President Gabriele Gravina has consistently backed Spalletti to lead the team through the current qualification cycle for the 2026 World Cup.
Mancini’s coaching record: A comparison
Mancini’s career has been defined by high-profile club successes and mixed results in international management. The following table highlights his recent international performance compared to his previous success.
| Team | Tenure | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Italy | 2018–2023 | Winner, UEFA Euro 2020 |
| Saudi Arabia | 2023–2024 | Round of 16, 2023 AFC Asian Cup |
While Mancini remains one of the most decorated managers in European football—notably winning three Serie A titles with Inter Milan and the Premier League with Manchester City—his recent stint in Saudi Arabia is widely viewed as a departure from his record of trophy-winning seasons.
What happens next for the former Italy manager?
As of November 2024, Roberto Mancini has not announced his next career move. He remains a free agent and has not publicly commented on specific job offers. Given his extensive resume, he remains a candidate for high-level club football roles, though he has not been linked to any specific vacancies by reputable sports outlets such as Sky Sport Italia or La Gazzetta dello Sport.
For now, the Italian national team remains focused on its upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures under Spalletti, effectively closing the door on the speculation regarding a coaching change.
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