Roberto Mancini, in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, expressed regret over his departure from the Italian national team and declared his willingness to return. “My biggest mistake? Not speaking with Gravina. If we had talked, maybe we’d be fighting for both the World Cup and the Euros right now".
The ex-Azzurri manager didn’t hide his ambition: “Being the national team coach is the most beautiful job there is. Winning with Italy means something special. It would be a great challenge—and sometimes, risks must be taken.” Mancini added he feels “indebted” to the national team and is motivated by a new goal: “I want to win a World Cup".
He recalled how, back in 2018, people called him “crazy” for prioritizing the European Championship. Yet the journey ended triumphantly with the Euro 2020 title, showcasing vision and leadership.
Mancini also struck a reconciliatory tone when speaking about Gabriele Gravina: “We’ve spoken, we understand each other. I truly believe reconciliation is possible. It wouldn’t be an issue". He added that he still keeps in touch with some of the players.