Italian option
Mancini emerges as surprise candidate for next Devils job
FORMER Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has emerged as a shock target for the Manchester United job after admitting he would be “interested” in returning to the Premier League. The 57-year-old recently guided Italy to Euro 2020 glory, defeating England in the final via a penalty shootout. But qualification for the World Cup has not gone as smoothly for the Azzurri.
The Telegraph claim Mancini has emerged as a wild card candidate for the United vacancy at the end of the season.
The former City boss is contracted to Italy until 2026 but the prospect of returning to the Premier League is thought to appeal to him.
The report states his history with United’s rivals is a potential complicating factor but that has not seen him discounted at this early stage.
The Iesi-born coach spent four years at Man City, arriving in 2009 after winning three successive Scudettos with Inter Milan.
He won a Community Shield and FA Cup with the Citizens and guided the club to their inaugural Premier League title.
Mancini’s side dealt United one of their darkest days in the Premier League, pipping them to the 2012 title on goal difference.
For that moment alone, his potential arrival might not be welcomed by a large portion of United supporters.
Italy’s World Cup status could have a big say in Mancini’s availability next summer, with the Euro 2020 champions having to go through the playoffs in March.
Despite going unbeaten in qualifying, Switzerland topped Group C after Italy drew four of their eight games.
Mancini’s side now must win two play-off games to prevent a shock exit before the competition even begins.
They must first navigate past North Macedonia in a winnable affair but will then have to beat either Portugal or Turkey to progress.
Whether Italy are present in Qatar next year or not, Mancini certainly seems to be under consideration by United.
But any incoming manager will need to have the approval of current interim boss Ralf Rangnick.
The German will take up a two-year consultancy role behind the scenes at the end of the season and will oversee the appointment of a new manager.
The 63-year-old was identified as Man Utd’s No.1 target to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and will take the reins at Old Trafford on a shortterm basis.
But Rangnick will not be in the dugout for United’s clash against Arsenal tomorrow as he is struggling with ongoing visa problems.
Mancini could target a number of Italy internationals if he were to take over at United.
Top of his list would be Federico Chiesa, who had a memorable Euro 2020 and was named in the team of the tournament.
If Anthony Martial leaves and Mason Greenwood starts playing more centrally, United may need additions out wide.
Inter Milan star Nicolo Barella has been linked with United in the past.
Many believe the Red Devils need to upgrade in midfield and Mancini could pursue the 24-year-old.
AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali would likely be an alternative to Barella.
Centreback Alessandro Bastoni has already won nine caps in the star-studded Azzurri defence.
Mancini handed him his debut last year and he was part of the victorious Euro squad, though only featured once.
There were rumours of interest from United in Bastoni earlier this year.
With Eric Bailly’s future in doubt, he could be a player Mancini looks at bringing in.