Roberto Mancini Apologizes for Past Departure, Vows to Restore Italy's Glory

Roberto Mancini has apologised for the way he left Italy three years ago after officially returning as head coach of the crisis-hit national team, admitting his departure was "completely my fault" and promising to restore the Azzurri to their former glory. The 61-year-old was reappointed as Italy coach following the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the third consecutive edition the four-time champions missed. The humiliating playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this year triggered the resignations of federation president Gabriele Gravina and coach Gennaro Gattuso, leaving the national side searching for a fresh start. Speaking publicly for the first time since his return, Mancini offered an emotional apology for resigning in August 2023 before taking over Saudi Arabia's national team just two weeks later. 'I'm very sorry... It was completely my fault' Mancini admitted he regretted the manner of his departure, comparing it to losing "the woman of your life." "I'm very sorry," Mancini said. "It was like losing the woman of your life. And it means you did something that shouldn't have been done. So I'm sorry, very sorry also for everything that happened over these last three years. … I'm going to try to bring the national team back where it belongs." The former Manchester City and Inter Milan manager also accepted responsibility for the breakdown in communication that led to his exit. "It was completely my fault," Mancini said, referring to a lack of communication with Gravina. Aware that many supporters remain upset over the way he walked away from the job, Mancini acknowledged he would have to win back their trust. "I realize some people will be against me," Mancini said. "I'm hoping the squad plays well enough that maybe people will forgive me." Italy turn back to Euro 2020 hero Mancini returns to the job he transformed between 2018 and 2023. After Italy failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, he rebuilt the national side with a youthful, attack-minded approach that culminated in their memorable Euro 2020 triumph over England at Wembley. His first spell also included a world-record 37-match unbeaten run, although the failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup after a shock playoff defeat to North Macedonia tarnished that success. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines Despite remaining in charge, Mancini stunned Italian football by resigning in August 2023 before accepting a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia. He later coached Qatar's Al-Sadd after leaving the Saudi role. His return comes after Italy explored several alternatives, with Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola declining the position, while Andrea Pirlo's candidacy was dropped amid political concerns surrounding a sponsorship agreement. Italy's new era under Mancini begins with a UEFA Nations League clash against Belgium on September 25 at Rome's Stadio Olimpico.