Roberto Mancini set for surprise return as Italy head coach after FIGC turmoil

Roberto Mancini set for surprise return as Italy head coach after FIGC turmoil Roberto Mancini is set for a surprise return as Italy head coach, according to The Athletic . The former Manchester City manager’s imminent return has already been confirmed by Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malago. Speaking after a FIGC board meeting, Malago revealed that Mancini is expected to complete the final formalities of his appointment soon. “I am talking to Mancini because he is the new coach,” Malago said. “We’re waiting for him to sign.” The 61-year-old guided Italy to their memorable UEFA Euro 2020 victory, ending the country’s 53-year wait for another European Championship title. He initially stepped down from the role following a disagreement with Malago’s predecessor, Gabriele Gravina, over the direction of the national team. Shortly after leaving Italy, he accepted a lucrative offer to become Saudi Arabia’s national team coach. That lasted for a year before he left for Qatari side Al Sadd, where he managed 25 games and averaged 2.08 points per match (PPM) en route to the league title. Barring any unforeseen plot twist, Mancini will return to Italy, but the fairytale reunion comes after days of uncertainty within the FIGC. Malago’s newly appointed executive team was thrown into chaos after their preferred candidate, Andrea Pirlo, failed to get enough support within the federation. The situation became even more complicated when technical director Paolo Maldini and strategic advisor Leonardo Araujo resigned from their positions.  Their decision came after concerns were raised over Pirlo’s role as a global ambassador for Russia’s largest betting operator , which ultimately ended his chances of taking the Italy job. Maldini and Leonardo left their positions after just 17 days, while Pirlo was informed on Sunday that he was no longer under consideration. Malago wasted no time turning to Mancini. The pair share a close relationship going back years, but Mancini’s appointment didn’t go down well with everyone. Former Italy manager Fabio Capello recently argued that Antonio Conte, who became available after leaving Napoli at the end of last season, would have been the better appointment. Capello praised Mancini’s coaching ability but questioned the manner of his departure in 2023, saying his decision to leave Italy for Saudi Arabia reflected poorly on the national team.