Italy goalkeeper and captain Gigio Donnarumma has sent a message to CONI president Giovanni Malagò expressing strong approval of Roberto Mancini's reappointment as head coach of the national team. Malagò revealed the message during a press appearance, stating that Donnarumma contacted him from his honeymoon and wrote: "Pres, perfect choice, it was what we wanted." The endorsement from the squad's most influential player signals unity behind the returning manager.
Mancini was officially presented to the media at the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) on Tuesday, marking his return to the role he vacated three years ago. In an emotional address, he apologised for his departure, calling it a mistake. "It is like when you lose the love of your life – you have done something wrong," Mancini told TG1. "If I had spoken more with president Gravina, probably this would not have happened and everything would have continued normally."
The former Manchester City and Inter Milan coach outlined his vision for the Azzurri, emphasising an attacking philosophy. "Italy must be a national team that plays well, plays on the front foot, and is offensive, as we did a few years ago," he said. Mancini insisted the squad has the quality to implement this style, despite recent struggles. He also confirmed that Claudio Ranieri, the veteran manager who led Leicester City to a Premier League title, will join his staff as a collaborator. "It will be a perfect collaboration. We will surely get along because our goal is to win and to do well," Mancini said.
Mancini paid tribute to the late Gianluca Vialli, his former teammate and close friend who died in 2023. He suggested that Vialli's presence might have prevented the problems that led to his earlier exit. "If he had been there, perhaps nothing would have happened, we would have continued and maybe won more. But at this moment, I think he is very happy," Mancini reflected.
On the topic of young players, Mancini noted that introducing youth has never been a problem during his previous tenure. "We gave debuts to about 50 young players, so this will not be an issue," he said, indicating a continued focus on developing emerging talent. The coach also expressed confidence in the current squad, believing they can rediscover their form after a difficult period.
The reappointment of Mancini comes at a crucial time for Italian football, following a challenging period for the national team. With Donnarumma's backing and Ranieri's experience, Mancini aims to restore Italy's reputation as a top footballing nation. The federation hopes that the familiar face of the Euro 2020 winning coach can bring stability and success once again.