Mancini returns to the national team, but the decision divides opinion

While the Olimpico will remain almost empty for Italy, with only 39,000 tickets sold yesterday, the decision to recall Roberto Mancini to the national team has divided public opinion, according to Tuttosport. The measure, aimed at healing the deep wounds left by Zenica's failure, was welcomed with enthusiasm by some and with skepticism by others.

The latest Serie A news reports that, despite popular prices, the Olimpico will be half full for Italy, while in Belgium yesterday 39,000 tickets were sold for the match.

The decision to recall Roberto Mancini to the national team, reported by Tuttosport, split public opinion; the head coach is the first to know that his second blue adventure starts uphill.

The role of Malagò

Mancini, described as the ace up Malagò's sleeve, accepted a contract on federated terms. Malagò allowed him to fulfill the dream of returning to the blue bench, a goal that would otherwise have remained a mirage if Gravina had stayed or if the farewells of Paolo Maldini and Leonardo had not taken place.

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According to gossip, the choice to sign the new contract was motivated by the desire to atone for the sin linked to the traumatic farewell of August 2023, which occurred after the recruitment by Saudi Arabia.

The full list of Italy's call‑ups has been published; ten Napoli players will be engaged with their national teams, a clear signal of the club's presence in the blue squad, while the Zenica apocalypse has already caused the third consecutive exclusion from the World Cup.

The contrast between the low ticket turnout and the division of public opinion highlights the challenges the national team will have to face, with Mancini ready to lead a group seeking redemption.