Roberto Mancini Says He Regrets Leaving Italy For Saudi Arabia Coaching Job

Roberto Mancini, the coach who led Italy to victory in Euro 2020, expressed his regrets on Sunday regarding his decision to leave the Italian national team to take on the managerial role with the Saudi Arabian national team.

Roberto Mancini had stepped down from the Azzurri in August 2023, attracted by a lucrative contract with Saudi Arabia, but he was dismissed due to a disappointing performance that saw his team achieve only seven wins out of 18 matches during his 14-month leadership.

Reflecting on his departure, Mancini told Italy’s public broadcaster Rai, “If I could go back, I wouldn’t decide to leave the Nazionale again, because coaching this national team is the most beautiful thing.”

He opened up about the challenges he faced, saying, “Maybe the President of the Italian FA (Gabriele Gravina) and I didn’t understand each other; perhaps we were just going through a difficult period. Maybe things could have turned out differently, but I have nothing against him.”

Upon resigning from his position with Italy, the 60-year-old coach signed a lucrative contract with Saudi Arabia, reportedly worth $25 million a year, which was set to last until 2027. However, after a lacklustre run where the results fell short of expectations, the Saudi football federation decided to part ways with Mancini, seeking to improve the team’s performance as they prepare for future competitions.

Mancini defended his career choices, stating, “My career speaks for itself,” and emphasized that his decision to move was motivated by factors beyond just financial gain. He reaffirmed his commitment to his profession, dispelling notions that he was driven solely by the substantial salary offered by the Gulf nation.

Amidst speculation about his future, Mancini has found himself linked to a potential managerial position at AS Roma, a role that many feel could be a good fit for his experience and footballing ethos. However, the former Manchester City manager clarified that he was “not in contact with anyone” about this opportunity, hinting that while he might be considering his options, he remains focused on what lies ahead.

“But something will happen, it’s only a matter of time,” he added, leaving fans and analysts curious about the next chapter in his distinguished coaching career.