As it was reported right after his resignation from Italy, Roberto Mancini is close to accepting a wealthy proposal to take over Saudi Arabia. Mexico expressed interest as well, but the gaffer is expected to move to the Middle East, La Gazzetta dello Sport informs (via Goal).
The manager is ready to take a three-year contract with €30M annual wages. He will aim at winning the AFC Asian Cup and qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. He was making €3M per year while guiding the Azzurri.
The closest collaborators will join Mancini in Saudi Arabia, causing another overhaul of the Italy staff. Fausto Salsano, Attilio Lombardo, who has just become the U-20 coach, Giulio Nuciari, Antonio Gagliardi, Massimo Battara, Andrea Scanavino and maybe even Gabriele Oriali will go with him.
The ex-Inter legend is serving as the team manager. Gianluigi Buffon could assume that role on top of being the head of the delegation. The FIGC would have to replenish the bench, although Luciano Spalletti will bring in a few of his usual assistants.
Alberto Bollini, who just moved up from the U-19 squad to being the right-hand man of Mancini, should stay on. Instead, contrary to early rumors, Andrea Barzagli might not stay aboard after the coaching change.
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