Roberto Mancini unexpectedly resigned from his role as Italy’s head coach and his decision has generated a variety of reactions from Azzurri supporters.
The 58-year-old Italian coach decided to step away from his role and communicated his decision to the FIGC late on Saturday night, preceding today’s shock announcement.
Mancini took over as Italy coach in May 2018, tasked with taking the team from the ashes following their failure to qualify for the World Cup in Russia. He quickly turned things around and guided the team to a record 36-game unbeaten run, which included their historic success at Euro 2020.
Euro 2020 was the high point for Mancini and the Azzurri, and a downward slope soon appeared following the tournament, culminating in Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, their second successive heartbreak.
Mancini’s resignation has prompted a split of opinions from supporters, but whilst some were sad and respectful, others were overjoyed to see his departure. Some also called for Luciano Spalletti to take over following his recent Napoli exit, whilst others joked about his desire not to call up Sandro Tonali.
“The only piece of news that’ll unite all Italian fans of any time.”
“Never again!”
“He’ll do everything not to call up Tonali.”
“Let’s hope in Spalletti as new head coach.”
“Only one name for the national team: Luciano Spalletti.”
“Give me Luciano Spalletti.”
“Best Ferragosto in the world.”