Roberto Mancini has committed to revitalizing the Italian national football team and restoring its competitive edge. The former Italy striker began his second tenure as head coach on Wednesday, working alongside newly appointed technical director Claudio Ranieri.

Mancini’s return follows a period of instability within the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). The team has been without a permanent head coach since Gennaro Gattuso resigned in April, after Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup. Andrea Pirlo initially emerged as the leading candidate to replace Gattuso, especially after Pep Guardiola declined interest in the position. However, Pirlo withdrew his candidacy on Monday amid controversy over alleged connections to a Russian betting company.

This series of events precipitated further upheaval, with Paolo Maldini and his advisor Leonardo resigning from their roles within days of taking up their positions. Subsequently, FIGC president Giovanni Malagò announced that Claudio Ranieri would assume the technical director role previously held by Maldini.

Mancini, who previously led Italy to victory at the European Championship in 2021, expressed confidence in the team’s potential. Speaking at a press conference, he said the goal is to field a squad capable of qualifying for and competing strongly in major tournaments. Mancini noted that even if Italy are not favorites, they have historically been a formidable presence at the World Cup and other events. “We will try to put together a squad that can qualify for the Euros, after the Nations League, and then think about the World Cup,” he stated.

Mancini also highlighted his personal commitment, mentioning the four-year contract he signed and his hope to win trophies and possibly extend his tenure beyond that period. “I was here for five years the first time and I was very happy, in my preferred role,” he said.

Claudio Ranieri, known for his coaching stints at Leicester City and Chelsea, acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized his readiness to confront them. “I know it will be a difficult situation, but my career as a coach speaks volumes about dealing with difficulties. I never held back,” Ranieri remarked, referring to his unexpected appointment while speaking humorously about being caught on the beach.

Italy’s first matches under Mancini’s renewed leadership are slated for September in the Nations League, facing Belgium and Turkey. The Italian federation will be looking for stability and progress as they seek to rebuild confidence and competitive success on the international stage.