Giovanni Malagò, President of the Italian National Olympic Committee, announced on July 28, 2026, that Roberto Mancini has been appointed as the new head coach of the Italian national soccer team.
The announcement was made during a Federal Council meeting at the FIGC headquarters in Rome.
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Malagò confirmed the choice to assembly members, stating, "Roberto Mancini is the head coach of the national team."
Discussions between Malagò and Mancini have centered on a four-year contract worth 2 million euros per year plus bonuses, with the goal of targeting the 2030 World Cup.
Negotiations are nearing completion to finalize the agreement, and Claudio Ranieri is expected to be appointed as the new technical director.
Mancini Returns After Previous Tenure
Mancini previously led Italy from 2018 to 2023, overseeing 61 matches with 37 wins, 15 draws, and 9 losses.
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His tenure included winning Euro 2021 and establishing a 37-match unbeaten streak, but also featured a failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup after a playoff loss to North Macedonia.
He left the role in August 2023 to coach Saudi Arabia.
The appointment bypasses Antonio Conte, who had support from several Serie A clubs.
Conte managed Italy from 2014 to 2016, recording 14 wins, 7 draws, and 4 losses in 25 matches before reaching the Euro 2016 quarterfinals.
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The decision follows recent resignations of national team directors Paolo Maldini and Leonardo, and an unsuccessful attempt to hire Thiago Motta.
