Roberto Mancini, the famed Italian coach, has stepped down as Saudi Arabia's football manager after just 14 months at the helm. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) announced the departure on Thursday, citing a \"joint agreement\" between both parties. 🇸🇦⚽️
The 59-year-old coach hoped to steer the Falcons to new heights, but the journey was anything but smooth. Under Mancini, Saudi Arabia played 18 games, securing seven wins, five draws, and facing six losses. They scored 26 goals but conceded 22, struggling in the third stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers with only one win in four matches.
The early exit from the AFC Asian Cup earlier this year added to the challenges. In a moment that sparked controversy, Mancini walked off before South Korea took their final penalty kick in the shootout, leading to heavy criticism. He later apologized for his actions.
Mancini also voiced concerns about the impact of heavy investments in foreign players by Saudi Pro League clubs. \"I've said this many times,\" he remarked at a recent press conference. \"This is the only problem that we have because three years ago all the Saudi players played every game. Today? 50, 60 per cent don't play.\" 🎙️
With a crucial World Cup qualifier against Australia coming up in November, Saudi Arabia sits third in Group C, outside the automatic qualification spots. 🏆 The SAFF mentioned that Mancini's replacement \"will be announced in the next few days after the finalization of the contract procedures.\"
Who will take the helm next? Can the Falcons soar back to glory? 🦅 Stay tuned for the next chapter in Saudi football!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
