In a significant move, Roberto Mancini has left Al Sadd, the champions of the Qatar Stars League. The decision was announced on Saturday, fueling speculation that the 61-year-old will return to coach Italy’s national team.
Mancini, who enjoyed success with Italy by winning Euro 2020, signed with Al Sadd until 2027 following an underwhelming stint with Saudi Arabia’s national team. His return to Italy is highly anticipated as the team looks to recover after missing out on three consecutive World Cup qualifications. Following Gennaro Gattuso’s departure in April after a defeat to Bosnia & Herzegovina, Silvio Baldini has been serving as interim coach.
Despite achieving victory in the QSL, Al Sadd could not advance to the final four of the AFC Champions League Elite and suffered a defeat in the Qatar Cup final.
(With inputs from agencies.)