Roberto Mancini is reportedly the frontrunner to become Italy’s next head coach, with the former Euro 2020-winning manager expected to begin a second spell with the Azzurri.
Roberto Mancini is reportedly on the verge of a sensational return to the Italy national team, with multiple reports suggesting he has become the leading candidate to take charge of the Azzurri once again.
The 61-year-old previously managed Italy between 2018 and 2023, overseeing one of the most memorable periods in recent national team history. Mancini guided the Azzurri to victory at Euro 2020, restoring pride to Italian football after the disappointment of missing the 2018 World Cup.
However, his first spell was not without setbacks. Despite European Championship success, Italy failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, a disappointment that ultimately cast a shadow over an otherwise successful tenure before Mancini stepped down in 2023.
🚨🇮🇹 Roberto Mancini opened doors to a return to the Italian national team since May and remains the leading candidate for the job.
Mancini, waiting for Federation’s green light.
🎥 https://t.co/MW4BkpunR2 pic.twitter.com/VGHVM2REnD
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 8, 2026
Italy’s search for a new permanent manager intensified after Gennaro Gattuso resigned from his role in March following another failed World Cup qualification campaign. Former Under-21 coach Silvio Baldini was appointed on an interim basis and guided the national team to victories over Luxembourg and Greece during the June international window.
Baldini’s temporary spell appears set to come to an end, with the coach expected to return to his previous role with Italy’s Under-21 side once a permanent appointment is made.
The final details may depend on developments within the Italian Football Federation, with presidential elections scheduled for June 22. Giovanni Malagò is currently viewed as the leading candidate, and his strong relationship with Mancini is believed to strengthen the coach’s chances of returning.
If negotiations proceed as expected, the Euro-winning manager could soon begin a second chapter with Italy as the nation looks to rebuild and return to football’s biggest stage.
