Key Takeaways:
- Multiple sources have reported that Roberto Mancini is now the leading candidate to become Italy’s next head coach
- Silvio Baldini, who served as Italy’s interim coach for the June friendlies, will return to lead the U21 squad once a new appointment is made
- Reports indicate that Mancini is set to agree a €2m-a-year contract running until 2030
Mancini Set for Return to Azzurri Helm
Roberto Mancini has emerged as the frontrunner to take over as head coach of the Italian national football team, with well-respected sources such as Gianluca Di Marzio, and transfer specialist Niccolò Schira all confirming his leading status for the role. Mancini, aged 61, previously managed La Nazionale from 2018 to 2023, guiding them to glory at UEFA Euro 2021 but also suffering disappointment with the failure to qualify for the subsequent World Cup.
🚨🚨| BREAKING: Roberto Mancini is set to become the new 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐀𝐂𝐇 of Italy. 👔🇮🇹
[@DiMarzio] pic.twitter.com/95xlSSNBVI
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) June 8, 2026
Coaching Transition Following Baldini’s Interim Spell
Gennaro Gattuso stepped down as Italy’s coach in March after the team’s unsuccessful World Cup qualification campaign. Silvio Baldini assumed interim responsibilities, having been promoted from the U21 squad, and oversaw 1-0 victories in friendly encounters against Luxembourg and Greece during June. Once a permanent head coach is announced, Baldini is set to return to managing the U21s.
Contract Details and Future Prospects
Transfer expert Niccolò Schira has reported that Roberto Mancini is expected to sign a new contract valued at €2 million per annum, expiring in 2030. Mancini’s previous stint with Italy ended in 2023 when he departed to take charge of the Saudi Arabia national team, a tenure that lasted less than a year. Since his departure, Mancini has openly admitted his regret over leaving the Azzurri bench.
FIGC Elections and Wider Implications
Although the FIGC Presidential election is not scheduled until 22 June 2026, Giovanni Malagò has emerged as the favourite for the position and enjoys a strong professional relationship with Mancini. This bond is expected to support Mancini’s return, with the former Manchester City manager and Sampdoria icon anticipated to resume his leadership at Coverciano in the near future.
