Mancini opens a new chapter with the Azzurri
Rome – Agencies – Roberto Mancini, in his first press conference since returning to coach the Italian national team, affirmed that he bears full responsibility for his decision to step down three years ago, admitting he made a mistake and emphasizing that his return represents an opportunity to rectify the past and restore the team to its rightful place.
Mancini stated that he feels a special emotional bond with the Azzurri, likening his departure to losing the “love of his life” due to a personal error. He noted that fate, along with FIGC President Giovanni Malagò, granted him a new chance to atone for that decision, confirming that his goal is to win titles and remain with the national team for as long as possible.
He clarified that his priority is building a team capable of winning every match, stressing that he will work to deliver attractive football so he can forgive himself for what happened in 2023.
He added that he spoke with former FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, admitting to him that the responsibility for his departure lay solely with him, and confirming that had there been a dialogue at the time, things would not have ended that way.
Mancini expressed strong confidence in the current generation of players, asserting that Italy possesses talented young players who need only confidence and hard work. He cited the experience of Nicolo Zaniolo, explaining that when he first joined the national team, he had not yet played in Serie A and initially lacked confidence, but developed rapidly once given the opportunity.
He stressed the importance of all youth national teams, from the under-19s to the under-21s, adopting the same tactical approach as the senior squad to facilitate smoother transitions for players when they are promoted.
Regarding his tactical project, Mancini explained that the national team will begin by employing a 4-3-3 formation, as it provides the team with an attacking identity. He confirmed that work will also focus on developing a new generation of defenders capable of fulfilling the roles played by Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini in recent years, by leading young players and helping them develop.
Mancini recalled his first stint with the national team, confirming that when he took charge in 2018, most observers considered Italy one of Europe’s declining teams, yet he never agreed with that assessment.
He pointed out that the team achieved a run of 37 consecutive matches without defeat, losing the record only to Spain, which he viewed as evidence of the quality of work delivered during that period.
He added that the Italian national team remains a dangerous competitor whenever it qualifies for the World Cup or the European Championship, and that the current objective is to build a squad capable of competing in all tournaments, including the UEFA Nations League, the European Championship, and the World Cup.
He also revealed his personal ambitions for the new phase, stating that he hopes to win a major title, perhaps two, and to build a long-term project that would allow him to continue with the national team beyond the end of his contract if the opportunity arises.
Mancini addressed the state of Serie A, noting that the proportion of foreign players has not changed significantly compared to three years ago. He expressed hope that Italian players will receive more opportunities with their clubs, while simultaneously affirming that playing abroad would be a positive development if they gain regular playing time.
Regarding the attack, Mancini expressed confidence in the capabilities of current strikers, pointing to several strong options such as Francesco Biondi, Moise Kean, and Matteo Retegui. He confirmed that he does not view them merely as young players, but as ready-made elements capable of bearing responsibility, and expressed hope that they would replicate the scoring rates achieved by Ciro Immobile for the national team.
