Roberto Mancini is set to become the new head coach of Italy, following the abrupt 16-day tenure of Paolo Maldini as technical director. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president, Giovanni Malago, informed the federal council of Mancini's impending return.

Claudio Ranieri is also expected to be appointed as technical director. Maldini and his adviser, Leonardo, resigned shortly after their appointment. Andrea Pirlo, Maldini and Leonardo's preferred candidate for head coach, was ruled out due to concerns over his links to a Russian gambling firm.

Both Maldini and Leonardo were brought in to overhaul the FIGC after Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup. Pep Guardiola also rejected the head coach role, which has been vacant since Gennaro Gattuso's departure. Mancini previously led Italy to Euro 2020 victory before resigning in August 2023.