Mancini Apologizes: “Leaving Italy Was Like Losing the Woman of Your Life”

Roberto Mancini publicly apologized to Italian supporters for his sudden departure from the national team in August 2023. He admitted that his decision to continue his career in Saudi Arabia—and the way his exit was communicated—was a serious mistake.

During his introductory press conference in Rome on July 29, 2026, the 61-year-old coach compared his separation from Italy to losing the love of his life.

“I’m very sorry. It was like losing the woman of your life. That means you did something you should not have done,” Mancini said.

He accepted responsibility for his departure but explained that there had also been a breakdown in communication with former Italian Football Federation president Gabriele Gravina.

Mancini acknowledged that some supporters remain angry with him, but he hopes to regain their trust through strong performances and positive results.

“I hope the fans can forgive me. I will try to make the team play so well that they will have a reason to forgive me,” he added.

Mancini’s Mission

The coach promised to work tirelessly to “bring the national team back where it belongs.” Italy have not played in a World Cup knockout match for 20 years, and Mancini is determined to bring that long and disappointing period to an end.

His first major task will be preparing the team for their upcoming UEFA Nations League match against Belgium.

The objective is not only to return to the World Cup but also to build a team capable of competing for trophies.

“If Italy qualify for the World Cup, we immediately become one of the teams to beat,” Mancini emphasized.

Speaking about his new four-year contract, he did not hide his ambition:

“I hope we can win one or two trophies and, if possible, stay beyond the end of the contract.”

Claudio Ranieri’s New Role

Claudio Ranieri appeared alongside Mancini during the presentation. At the age of 74, Ranieri takes over as FIGC technical director and president of Club Italia, filling the vacancy created by Paolo Maldini’s departure.

Ranieri will oversee technical operations and elite football development throughout the entire Italian national-team structure. His experience is expected to be crucial in creating a stronger connection between the senior national team and Italy’s youth sides.

Malagò: An Important Step Toward Stability

President Giovanni Malagò emphasized that both Mancini and Ranieri showed great understanding regarding the federation’s financial constraints.

According to Malagò, their joint appointment represents a crucial step toward sharing responsibility and dealing with the pressure surrounding Italy’s return to the World Cup.

The federation also revealed that another prominent figure is expected to join the leadership structure as national-teams manager and head of delegation.

According to reports, Gianfranco Zola is the preferred candidate. The former Italy forward is expected to serve as a bridge between the senior squad and the youth-development system.

Mancini’s message was clear: he wants to correct his 2023 mistake, regain the supporters’ trust and restore Italy’s place among the leading powers of world football.