World Cup

Mancini: I'm here to restore Italy to what it should be

14 August 2026·4 min read·Mónica Álvarez
Mancini: I'm here to restore Italy to what it should be

After the search for a new coach, Roberto Mancini was re-signed as Italy's head coach with a clear goal: bring the team back to the top and win major trophies.

Mancini: I'm here to restore Italy to what it should be

According to Soccernews.

Context

Roberto Mancini already has the experience of leading Italy from 2018 to 2023, where he achieved success at Euro 2020. Upon his return, his goal is not only to recover from past defeats but also to win major titles for Italy in the coming years.

Why it matters

The re-appointment of Roberto Mancini as head coach of Italy is an important step for the national team to be recognized again in international football. Under his leadership, the Azzurri won Euro 2020, but failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup highlighted the need for a massive rebuild. His aim to return Italy to the top of Nations League football is a challenge that will surely test his skills as a coach.

Key Points

  • Mancini: I am here to restore Italy to what it should be.
  • Roberto Mancini has been reappointed as Italy's national coach.
  • Mancini: I'm here to bring Italy back to where it deserves to be.
Roberto Mancini is back as head coach of the Italian national team, and his mission is clear: "I'm here to bring Italy back to where it should be." His reappointment was announced after a long search to replace Gennaro Gattuso. Many names have floated in the search process—including Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti and Andrea Pirlo. Pirlo was rumored to be close to agreeing a position, but the deal fell through on Sunday and Mancini was ultimately confirmed to be in charge of the Azzurri once again. Mancini had a previous stint as Italy's coach from 2018 to 2023. During that time, he celebrated the biggest success of his tenure by winning Euro 2020, but followed it up with a failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup. On record, he recorded 38 wins from 58 matches (12 draws, 8 losses) before leaving in 2023 to become the coach of Saudi Arabia.
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Italy—who have reportedly missed out on the last three editions of the World Cup—need a massive rebuild, and Mancini is determined to lead the team's return to the international football stage. In his first press conference after the re-appointment he said: "Fate has given me another chance because of President Malagò, and I'm here to bring Italy back where it belongs. I want to win a big trophy, maybe two. And then, stay longer than my contract, if possible. Whatever happens in 2023, the goal is always to win and play well. I'm convinced that the players are there and they will be good, especially the young ones." Mancini's first game on his return is against Belgium in the Nations League on September 25. Italy's group also includes two meetings with Turkey and a match against France in the upcoming international break — all part of their Nations League campaign. Mancini's reappointment sends a clear message from the Italian federation: they are willing to devote time and resources to rebuilding the team. He will face the quick task of assessing the current roster, developing a strategy for young talent, and preparing the team for a series of crucial matches that will set the tone for the Azzurri's future on the continental and global stage.

What's next

Now that Mancini is in his second spell as Italy coach, he is expected to initiate a sweeping change in the squad. His first mission is to prepare for the upcoming Nations League campaign, where Italy will be hoping to recover from previous shortcomings. The next steps could include identifying new talents and building a strong foundation for the Azzurri's future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Roberto Mancini?

Roberto Mancini is back as head coach of the Italian national team.

Who confirmed Mancini's return?

His reappointment was announced after a long search for Gennaro Gattuso's replacement.

Why did Mancini return to Italy?

Italy needed a massive rebuild and Mancini was determined to get the team back on the international stage football.

What changes are expected under Mancini?

Mancini is expected to lead Italy's return to football success, with the aim of winning a major trophy.

What is Mancini's previous experience as Italy coach?

Mancini coached Italy from 2018 to 2023, where he won Euro 2020 but missed out on World Cup 2022.

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Mga Madalas na Itanong

What happened to Roberto Mancini?
Roberto Mancini returns as head coach of the Italian national team.
Who confirmed Mancini's return?
His reappointment was announced after a long search for Gennaro Gattuso's replacement.
Why now Mancini returned to Italy?
Italy needed a massive rebuild and Mancini was determined to get the team back on the international football stage.
What changes are expected under Mancini?
Mancini is expected to lead Italy's return to football success, with the aim of winning a major trophy.
What is Mancini's previous experience as Italy coach?
Mancini was Italy's coach from 2018 to 2023, where he won Euro 2020 but missed out on World Cup 2022.
What happened in this story?
Mancini: I am here to restore Italy to what it should be summarizes the main development covered in this report.
Who confirmed this news?
See the source attribution in the article for where this report was first published or corroborated.
World Cup 2026Nations LeagueItalyaRoberto Mancini

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