Football NewsFootItaliaUnverified source· 3 Aug 2026
Mancini Returns as Italy Coach After Pirlo Betting Row
Italy's chaotic coaching search ends with Mancini back, after Pirlo's betting links and Ancelotti's refusal.
R. Mancini
coach
Role
Head coach of Italy
Appointed by
FIGC president Giovanni Malagò
Previous coach
Gennaro Gattuso (departed in April)
What happened. Roberto Mancini has been reappointed as Italy head coach, with Claudio Ranieri as technical director, after Andrea Pirlo's betting controversy derailed his candidacy.
- Pirlo was chosen by Maldini and Leonardo but lost approval due to Fonbet ambassadorship.
- Guardiola and Ancelotti both declined the role.
- Maldini and Leonardo left by mutual consent after Pirlo stood aside.
“I was unable to give final approval... I felt Roberto Mancini should become coach.”
— Giovanni Malagò
Mancini's return aims to stabilize Italy after World Cup failure and a chaotic search.
In this story
More to read
Football Italia
Mancini’s first Italy press conference: Reasons for optimism and concern
The Guardian
‘I’m very sorry’: Mancini apologises after being reappointed as Italy head coach
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Malagò: ‘Donnarumma approves Mancini as Italy coach, UEFA-FIFA total conflict’
Football Italia
Mancini: ‘Italy the love of my life, I hope fans can forgive me’
