Roberto Mancini, the former manager of the Italian national team, has been the subject of speculation regarding a potential return to the Azzurri’s coaching role. However, when questioned on Wednesday, he evaded direct commentary, stating simply, “I will watch the World Cup.”
Mancini, who previously led Italy, declined to address rumors linking him to a possible comeback as the Azzurri’s CT (Commissario Tecnico, or technical commissioner).
Attending an event organized by Rome’s medical association on Wednesday, Mancini, as reported by Lapresse, offered no updates on his future career plans. His sole comment on the matter was that he intends to “watch the World Cup” this summer.
Mancini’s Stance on an Italy Return
The Italian national team has faced the disappointment of failing to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time. This came after their defeat in the World Cup play-off final to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March, decided by penalties.
Silvio Baldini is set to manage the senior Azzurri squad for the upcoming June friendly matches. Nevertheless, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is expected to appoint a new head coach following the presidential elections scheduled for June 22, 2026.
According to Italian media reports, Mancini is considered one of the leading candidates for the position, alongside other prominent figures such as Antonio Conte, Massimiliano Allegri, and Claudio Ranieri.
Mancini abruptly resigned from his role as Italy’s head coach in 2023. While he achieved a significant triumph by winning the European Championship in 2021, his tenure was also marked by the failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
Just weeks after his departure from the Italian job, Mancini took up a position with the Saudi Arabian national team. He later reflected on this decision, acknowledging it as a mistake.
During Wednesday’s event, Mancini also shared his views on the increasing influence of algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) in the sport of football.
“This is a technology that has already made its way into football, but honestly,” Mancini remarked.
“I believe it’s crucial to make decisions based on what you observe and what you understand, because algorithms can err in football.”
Mancini clearly believes that AI will not ultimately replace the role of a football coach. “I don’t think so; I still maintain that the human element prevails,” he concluded.
