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Roberto Mancini has officially resigned as the head coach of the Italian national football team, according to an announcement by the country's football federation (FIGC) on Sunday.
Mancini's departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Azzurri, leaving behind a legacy of triumphs and challenges during his tenure.
Mancini assumed the role of head coach in May 2018, charged with the arduous task of rejuvenating the national team after they failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup - a shocking setback for a team that had only missed the World Cup finals once before in 1958.
Despite skepticism and criticism, Mancini successfully guided Italy to victory at the European Championship in 2021, restoring hope and pride among Italian football enthusiasts.
However, the team's fortunes took another unexpected turn as they stumbled to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The disappointment led to heightened scrutiny and calls for Mancini's resignation, yet he persevered with the support of the nation's federation president.
Mancini's leadership reached its climax in June, as Italy secured a commendable third place at the Nations League finals, showcasing their prowess on the international stage under his guidance. The FIGC's statement reflected the significance of Mancini's tenure, emphasizing that his impactful journey had begun in 2018 and concluded with the 2023 Nations League Finals.
"With important and upcoming commitments for the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers on the horizon," the statement read, "the FIGC will be announcing the name of the new national coach in the next few days."
As anticipation builds around the identity of Mancini's successor, football fans across Italy eagerly await the appointment that will shape the team's future trajectory.
While Mancini's resignation may come as a surprise, it underscores the volatile nature of football management, where triumphs and challenges often intertwine.
As the search for a new head coach commences, Italy's football community is left reflecting on the highs and lows of Mancini's era, appreciating the remarkable victories and eagerly looking ahead to the next chapter in Azzurri's history.