Three years after his controversial departure, Roberto Mancini is once again at the center of Italy's national team plans. The former head coach, who stepped down shortly after leading the Azzurri to victory at UEFA Euro 2020, has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge of the team once again.
Italy is currently under the interim management of Silvio Baldini following Gennaro Gattuso's tenure, and Mancini's appointment is reportedly at an advanced stage, with only the final formalities remaining. However, the process is likely to be influenced by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) presidential election scheduled for June 22, which could reshape the federation's internal balance of power.
Financially, a deal is not expected to be an issue. Mancini is believed to be ready to accept a contract worth around €2 million per year plus bonuses. Although he remains under contract with Qatari side Al Sadd until 2028, the club is not expected to stand in the way of an early release.
The biggest challenge may be winning back the fans. Many supporters were disappointed when Mancini left the national team to take a lucrative role in Saudi Arabia before moving to Qatar. The coach has since admitted that leaving Italy was a mistake and has repeatedly expressed his emotional attachment to the Azzurri.