Mancini’s Comeback: Targeting Juventus to Forge a Winning Legacy
Roberto Mancini is eager to return to Italian football, where he hasn’t coached since 2016. Following his dismissal from the Saudi Arabia national team, Mancini is seeking to re-enter top-level football through one of its most prestigious doors: Juventus. Reports suggest there have been initial contacts, and Mancini is highly interested in succeeding Thiago Motta, despite potential financial constraints.
This move comes after a challenging period for Mancini, including the disappointment with Saudi Arabia and Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, which came on the heels of their Euro 2020 triumph. The Wembley victory in 2021 marked the pinnacle of Mancini’s coaching career, leading an underdog Italian team to European glory. However, subsequent struggles in World Cup qualifiers led to Italy missing out on the tournament for the second consecutive time.
Mancini’s tenure with Saudi Arabia was short-lived and unsuccessful. Despite a lucrative four-year contract, he was dismissed after poor performances in the Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers. This experience has fueled Mancini’s desire to return to familiar territory where he has previously achieved success.
In Serie A, Mancini has a track record of success both as a player and coach. His managerial highlights include winning the Coppa Italia with Fiorentina and Lazio, and a highly successful period with Inter Milan from 2004 to 2008, securing three league titles, two Italian Cups, and two Italian Super Cups.
At 61, Mancini still harbors a strong ambition to win. He believes he can establish a winning dynasty at Juventus, though he may face resistance from some fans due to his past associations, particularly during the Calciopoli scandal era. However, Mancini’s appointment is not guaranteed, as Thiago Motta remains Juventus’ current coach, albeit with an uncertain future.
Mancini’s potential move to Juventus represents his aspiration for redemption and a return to the forefront of Italian football, aiming to add more silverware to his impressive collection.