Roberto Mancini has returned as Italy's coach, expressing deep regret for his previous departure to manage Saudi Arabia. "I'm very sorry," Mancini stated in his first public comments since being rehired. "It was like losing the woman of your life. And it means you did something that shouldn't have been done." He aims to restore the national team to its former glory after their failure to qualify for the World Cup for a third consecutive time, which led to the resignations of federation president Gabriele Gravina and coach Gennaro Gattuso.

Mancini, who guided Italy to the Euro 2021 title, unexpectedly resigned in August 2023, taking the Saudi Arabian job two weeks later. He acknowledged the situation was "completely my fault," citing a lack of communication. His first game back is against Belgium in the Nations League on September 25 in Rome. Mancini anticipates a mixed reception from fans but hopes strong team performances will foster forgiveness.

He was reportedly the fourth choice for the role, with Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola declining the offer, and Andrea Pirlo being removed from consideration due to political concerns.