Roberto Mancini Reflects on Leaving the Italian National Team
Roberto Mancini, the coach who famously guided Italy to their Euro 2020 victory, has opened up about his regret over stepping away from the national team to manage Saudi Arabia.
Mancini resigned from his role with the Azzurri in August 2023, lured by a high-profile contract in Saudi Arabia. However, his tenure in the Gulf nation was short-lived, with just seven wins out of 18 matches during his 14 months in charge. The Saudi football federation decided to part ways with the 60-year-old coach, citing the need for better results as they prepare for upcoming competitions.
In a recent interview with Rai, Mancini reflected on his decision, saying, “If I could go back, I wouldn’t leave the Nazionale again. Coaching this team is an unmatched experience.”
He also addressed his strained relationship with Gabriele Gravina, President of the Italian Football Association, noting, “Perhaps we didn’t see eye to eye, or it was just a challenging period. Things could have been different, but I hold no grudges.”
Upon leaving Italy, Mancini signed a lucrative deal with Saudi Arabia, reportedly valued at $25 million annually and set to run until 2027. Despite the financial appeal, Mancini insisted his decision wasn’t purely about the paycheck. “My career speaks for itself,” he said, emphasizing that the move was driven by more than just money.
As speculation swirls about his next move, rumors have linked Mancini to a potential role with AS Roma. While many see him as a perfect fit for the club, the former Manchester City manager dismissed any immediate plans, stating, “I’m not in contact with anyone right now.”
Still, he hinted at the possibility of returning to the sidelines soon. “Something will happen—it’s just a matter of time,” he said, leaving fans eager to see where his next chapter unfolds.
