Mancini becomes coach for Saudi Arabia’s national football team

RIYADH: Roberto Mancini has been appointed as the new head coach of the Saudi Arabian national team, following his unexpected departure from the Italy managerial position earlier this month.

As per media reports, the agreement has reportedly been valued at over $25 million annually.

The reports said that the Saudi team had been without a coach since Herve Renard’s departure to oversee France’s women’s team.

Having led Italy to victory in Euro 2020, Mancini, 58, now embarks on this four-year role, expressing his deep honour at the opportunity. He highlighted his excitement to engage in football in a new country, particularly acknowledging how much people in Asia love the sport.

I am excited to announce that I am joining the Saudi Arabia Football Federation as Head Coach of the National Team. I am delighted and honored to have been selected for such prestigious role, as a sign of appreciation and recognition for all the work done during these years. pic.twitter.com/lW2pF0rVar

— Roberto Mancini (@robymancio) August 27, 2023

Meanwhile, Mancini’s appointment aligns with Saudi Arabia’s recent move to make their local soccer league, the Saudi Pro League, stronger. However, the strategy, initiated by Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to Al-Nassr in January, attracted other prominent figures like Brazilian star Neymar.

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Mancini’s departure from his Italy post surprised many, especially considering his recent allocation of responsibilities involving the Under-21 and Under-20 squads. Reports of his potential move to Saudi Arabia prompted substantial criticism, which he countered by refuting financial motivations as the cause of his resignation.

However, during his five-year tenure as Italy’s coach, Mancini’s journey was marked by ups and downs. While clinching victory at Euro 2020 revitalised the nation’s football spirit, Italy’s failure to qualify for the previous year’s World Cup, following a devastating play-off loss to North Macedonia, exposed vulnerabilities.

Mancini is acclaimed for his accomplishments as both a player and coach. He has secured honours such as the 1991 Serie A title and four Italian Cups during his time at Sampdoria. He added to his achievements with three additional Scudetti at Inter Milan, along with a Premier League triumph with Manchester City in 2012.

The specifics of Mancini’s Saudi Arabian contract were reportedly outlined by La Gazzetta Dello Sport, indicating an annual salary of €25 million ($27 million). However, official statements from the federation did not confirm the financial details.

Meanwhile, Mancini is scheduled to arrive in Riyadh on Monday, where he will be formally introduced to the media. His opening match with the Saudi team is slated for September 8, an international friendly against Costa Rica, to be held at St James’ Park in Newcastle, a venue owned by the Saudi sovereign wealth fund.

With his extended contract, Mancini’s trajectory could potentially lead Saudi Arabia through to the upcoming World Cup.