Roberto Mancini Parts Ways with Saudi Arabia National Team Just 14 Months Into Record-Breaking Deal
Roberto Mancini, former Manchester City manager, has been dismissed from his position as head coach of Saudi Arabia’s national team just 14 months into a highly lucrative four-year contract. The unexpected move will see Mancini receive a substantial payout, ending his brief tenure in the Middle East.
Appointed in the summer of 2023, Mancini’s hiring was a landmark move for Saudi Arabian football, bringing in a coach with a distinguished resume. However, his time at the helm produced mixed results, with only seven wins out of 18 games. On Thursday, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) confirmed his departure, stating: “The Board of Directors of the Saudi Football Federation and the coach of the national team, Roberto Mancini, reached a joint agreement today, which includes the end of the contractual relationship.”
SAFF has promised an announcement on Mancini’s successor soon, as they prepare for World Cup qualifiers against Australia and Indonesia in November.
Mancini’s contract, originally set to last until 2027, reportedly made him the highest-paid coach in football, with an annual salary of €25 million (£21.5 million) after tax. With nearly three years left on his contract, Mancini’s payout could total around £65 million—a hefty compensation for his short-lived role.
Reports from Italy suggest that tensions grew between Mancini and some players toward the end of his tenure, while Saudi Arabia’s recent goalless draw with Bahrain reportedly sparked a heated exchange between the coach and a few disappointed fans.
Before taking on the Saudi Arabia role, Mancini left his position as Italy’s national team coach, a role where he achieved a memorable victory in Euro 2020, triumphing over England in the final at Wembley. Throughout his career, Mancini has managed several top European clubs, including Inter Milan, Lazio, and Galatasaray.
