August 15, (THEWILL) – Roberto Mancini has insisted that a potential move to coach Saudi Arabia is not behind his sudden resignation as Italy manager on Sunday.
In interviews with Italian newspapers, Mancini claimed there is currently no firm offer from Saudi Arabia despite reports he could earn €25 million to manage the national team of the Gulf nation. “I’m a football manager and when I receive an offer that I like I will accept it. But that’s not why I quit the national team,” Mancini explained.
The 58-year-old said he stepped down due to disagreements with Italian FA president Gabriele Gravina over proposed coaching staff changes. THEWILL recalls that Mancini delivered European Championship success with Italy in 2020 but failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup. His decision to quit comes with Italy facing crucial Euro 2024 qualifiers next month.
The Italian FA is now scrambling to appoint a replacement with Luciano Spalletti and Antonio Conte the early favourites. Despite winning Serie A with Napoli last season, Spalletti remains under contract until June 2024. A clause would allow him to leave for €3 million in compensation. However, there is no such restriction for Conte after he parted ways with London club Tottenham Hotspur under far from amicable circumstances.
Although Mancini has been heavily criticised for quitting so close to the Euro 2024 qualifiers following reports of a big-money Saudi offer, he is adamant Saudi Arabia was not a factor in his decision: “Have you ever seen the head of the Federation change a manager’s coaching staff? I’m the one who should be making changes,” Mancini fired back when queried about resigning.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
