Roberto Mancini has left Al Sadd, the Qatar Stars League champions, as announced on June 13, 2026 [1, 2]. Mancini, 61, is expected to return as head coach of the Italy national team, following Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup [1, 2].
Mancini previously led Italy to victory at the Euro 2020 tournament, cementing his status as a top international coach [1, 2]. He had signed a contract with Al Sadd until 2027 after a less successful tenure managing the Saudi Arabia national team [1, 2]. Despite winning the Qatar Stars League title, Al Sadd failed to reach the AFC Champions League Elite final four and lost in the Qatar Cup final during Mancini’s spell [1, 2].
Italy’s coaching position has been in flux since April 2026, when Gennaro Gattuso departed after a World Cup qualifying defeat to Bosnia & Herzegovina [1, 2]. Silvio Baldini has served as interim coach since Gattuso’s exit [1, 2]. Italian media report Mancini as the leading candidate to be appointed Italy’s permanent coach again [1, 2].
Mancini’s return is anticipated amid the Italian football federation’s efforts to rebuild the national team after missing the World Cup for the first time in decades. Details of his contract or official confirmation from the Italian federation remain pending [1, 2].