Roberto Mancini (foto: Getty Images)
Roberto Mancini admits he regrets leaving the Italian national team in 2023, despite landing a lucrative role with Saudi Arabia, and reflects on both triumphs and disappointments with Italy.
Roberto Mancini, the coach who led Italy to European Championship glory in 2020, has opened up about his decision to leave the national team and admits he regrets it. In an interview with Il Giornale to mark his 60th birthday, Mancini reflected on his time with the Azzurri and the difficult choice he made in the summer of 2023, when he stepped down and was replaced by Luciano Spalletti.
Shortly after leaving Italy, Mancini signed a lucrative deal to become the head coach of the Saudi Arabia national team. While he acknowledges the financial benefits of the role, he insists money wasn’t the decisive factor in his departure.
"I won’t deny that the salary was very high—though less than what the papers say—but it wasn’t the deciding factor in my decision," Mancini explained.
Looking back on his time with Italy, Mancini highlighted both the highs and lows of his tenure. "We had difficulties at the beginning, but I mostly remember the good times. We went on long winning streaks and broke many records, something I’m extremely proud of. Taking Italy back to the top of Europe after 50 years was an indescribable feeling," he said.
However, Mancini admits that failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup remains a painful memory. "That is a wound that still hurts me deeply," he added.
Mancini’s time with Saudi Arabia ended in October 2023, after he and the federation agreed to part ways. Now, the experienced coach is on the lookout for his next opportunity, with speculation surrounding his future growing as he evaluates potential roles.