Roberto Mancini Appointed Italy Head Coach for Second Spell—-The Italian Football Federation has confirmed the return of Euro 2020-winning manager Roberto Mancini, who replaces Gennaro Gattuso as the Azzurri begin a new era following another World Cup qualification failure.

Roberto Mancini has been appointed as Italy’s new head coach for a second spell in charge, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed on Tuesday, marking the return of the manager who guided the Azzurri to UEFA Euro 2020 glory.

The 61-year-old replaces Gennaro Gattuso, who stepped down after Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, extending the nation’s unprecedented run of missing three consecutive World Cup tournaments. FIGC President Giovanni Malagò confirmed Mancini’s appointment during a Federal Council meeting, describing him as the best candidate to lead the national team’s rebuild.

Mancini previously managed Italy between 2018 and 2023, transforming the national side after their failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. His greatest achievement came in 2021 when he led the Azzurri to the European Championship title, defeating England on penalties at Wembley. However, his first tenure was also overshadowed by Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup before he resigned in 2023 to take charge of Saudi Arabia.

After leaving Saudi Arabia, Mancini spent time with Qatar’s Al-Sadd before becoming available for an international return. His reappointment follows a turbulent period within the federation after attempts to appoint Pep Guardiola and Andrea Pirlo both collapsed. Pirlo’s candidacy was abandoned following controversy surrounding his commercial ties to a Russian betting company, triggering the resignations of newly appointed FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini and adviser Leonardo.

As part of the federation’s restructuring, veteran coach Claudio Ranieri has been named Italy’s new technical director. The former Leicester City and Roma manager will oversee the country’s football development programme while working closely with Mancini as the federation seeks to restore the Azzurri to the summit of international football.

Mancini’s immediate priority will be rebuilding confidence within the national team ahead of the UEFA Nations League campaign and the qualification process for UEFA Euro 2028. Italy’s recent struggles have intensified calls for sweeping reforms, but federation officials believe the return of the Euro-winning coach offers the stability and experience needed to guide the four-time world champions back to the elite level of international football.

The appointment marks a remarkable return for one of Italy’s most successful modern managers. Having already delivered a major international trophy during his first spell, Mancini will now be tasked with restoring pride to the Azzurri and ensuring the national team never again endures the disappointment of missing football’s biggest tournament.

Chelsea Explore Surprise Move for Brighton Veteran Danny Welbeck—-The Blues are considering a surprise move for Brighton & Hove Albion veteran Danny Welbeck, with Xabi Alonso keen to add leadership and Premier League experience to his youthful squad.

Chelsea are exploring a shock move for Brighton & Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck as manager Xabi Alonso looks to add experience and leadership to his attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season. The interest is at an exploratory stage, with Chelsea assessing the conditions of a potential deal for the 35-year-old England international.

Welbeck has just one year remaining on his contract at Brighton after triggering a one-year extension earlier this year. The former Manchester United and Arsenal forward enjoyed one of the most productive campaigns of his career last season, scoring 13 Premier League goals and finishing among the highest-scoring English strikers in the division. His consistent performances reignited calls for an England recall and have now attracted interest from Stamford Bridge.

Despite Chelsea’s heavy investment in young attacking talent in recent transfer windows, Alonso is understood to believe the squad would benefit from the presence of an experienced forward capable of mentoring younger players while contributing on the pitch. The Spaniard reportedly views Welbeck’s professionalism, versatility and leadership as valuable qualities that could complement Chelsea’s youthful core.

Chelsea have already strengthened their squad significantly this summer but remain active in the market as they seek the right balance between youth and experience. Reports suggest the club could also sanction departures in attack before the transfer window closes, with Welbeck emerging as an unexpected but serious option to bolster the frontline.

Brighton are aware of Chelsea’s interest but have yet to receive a formal offer. The Seagulls value Welbeck highly for both his goals and influence in the dressing room, meaning any negotiations are expected to depend on Chelsea presenting an attractive proposal. With only 12 months left on his contract, however, Brighton could consider a sale if the right bid arrives.

While discussions remain in the early stages, Chelsea’s interest signals a possible shift in transfer strategy under Alonso, who appears determined to blend elite young talent with proven Premier League experience as the Blues aim to challenge for major honours in the 2026–27 campaign.