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Roberto Mancini named new Saudi Arabia manager after shock Italy resignation.
Former Italy national team manager Roberto Mancini has been appointed as the new head coach of the Saudi Arabia national team.
Mancini has been formally named as the new manager of the Saudi Arabia national team, less than two weeks after he announced his resignation as Italy’s head coach. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian will be introduced in front of supporters on Monday in Riyadh during a glamorous presentation ceremony.
“I am immensely honoured to be offered the position as Saudi Arabia national team manager,” Mancini said after being confirmed in his new role. “I believe this is a great opportunity for me, to experience football in a new country, especially with the growing popularity of football in Asia. I firmly believe that the passionate footballing culture of Saudi Arabia and the intrinsic quality of Saudi players are crucial ingredients for success. The presence of top players in the Saudi Pro League indicates the potential for growth in the national football scene.
“The whole world recognises the enormous potential of the Saudi Arabia national team during their outstanding performance at the World Cup. The scenes of the fans following that victory was immense. They left their mark on the global stage, filling Saudi Arabian football fans with immense pride and accelerating the nation’s footballing ambitions. We have the potential to improve further. The squad is strong with talented players. I believe we have what it takes to elevate our game if we work hard.”
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Mancini, who led Italy to a stunning victory at Euro 2020 two years ago, is expected to earn €25 million a year after agreeing to a four-year contract to lead Saudi Arabia. At Newcastle United’s home stadium, St. James’ Park, on September 8, he will oversee a friendly match against Costa Rica.
During the forthcoming international break, the Green Falcons are scheduled to play friendly matches against South Korea on September 12 and Costa Rica on September 8 respectively. At the 2026 World Cup qualifications, where Saudi Arabia will play either Cambodia or Pakistan in their opening group stage encounter, Mancini will face his first significant test.