Multiple sources have reported this week that Roberto Mancini is the leading candidate for the Italy job, but the decision has already sparked debate due to the coach’s controversial exit in 2023. Therefore, we ask you: should he be appointed for a second stint?
Roberto Mancini could return to the Italy bench after the FIGC Presidential elections on June 22, 2026.
Mancio already led the Azzurri from 2018 to 2023, guiding them to Euro 2020 glory but also missing out on World Cup qualification in 2022.
During his tenure as the Azzurri boss, Mancini established the record for the longest unbeaten streak in international football, with the Nazionale going unbeaten for 37 matches during which they scored 93 goals and conceded just 12.
His exit in August 2023, however, caused outrage in Italy, as the Sampdoria legend was appointed coach of the Saudi Arabia national team just a few weeks later.
Mancini stepped down in the middle of the Euro 2024 qualifiers, paving the way for Luciano Spalletti’s era, which lasted less than two years.
Over the last few years, Mancini openly admitted that leaving the Italy national team was a mistake, but many have not forgiven him.
Among them is Italy legend Gianni Rivera, who said in April: “I’m sorry for Roberto, really. But when he ran away in Saudi Arabia, he made a decision and forced all of us not to want him as the Italy coach. He has made himself available again, but he was one of the first ones to hurt the national team. I hope he doesn’t return to our bench.”
Mancini is said to be on very good terms with Giovanni Malagò, the favourite to win the FIGC Presidential elections on June 22, 2026. Therefore, many sources, including Fabrizio Romano and Sky Sport Italia, report that Mancini is the favourite for the Italy job. But would you bring him back to the national team?
Have your say below.
