Antonio Conte is emerging as the leading candidate to become the next manager of the Italian national team, according to reports in Italy. The former Napoli coach is favored ahead of Roberto Mancini, with Pep Guardiola considered a more ambitious, long-term target.
Conte, who previously managed Italy from 2014 to 2016, leading them to the quarter-finals of Euro 2016, has been out of work since leaving Tottenham Hotspur. He recently completed a spell at Napoli, and has expressed his interest in returning to the national setup, stating, “It is right that my name is part of the list of candidates. I have already been on the bench of the national team, I know the environment.”
The Italian Football Federation elections on June 22nd will significantly influence the appointment. The outcome of the presidential vote, contested between Giovanni Malagò and Giancarlo Abete, will likely shape the direction of the national team. The timing of the vote, coinciding with the start of the new season, adds complexity to the process.
Should Conte be appointed, his first match would be a Nations League fixture against Belgium on September 25th, followed by matches against Turkey, France, and another encounter with Turkey. During his initial tenure, Conte instilled a clear tactical identity, primarily utilizing a 3-5-2 formation, and fostered a strong team spirit. His ability to quickly organize and motivate a team is seen as a key asset.
Mancini, who led Italy to victory at Euro 2021, is also keen on a return. He currently manages Al Sadd in Qatar, having recently secured the league title. Mancini has openly expressed his desire to coach Italy again, emphasizing the unique prestige of leading the national team. However, Conte appears to be the preferred choice at this stage.
Guardiola, currently at Manchester City, represents a more aspirational target. Having announced his departure from City, he is considering future options, potentially including a national team role. While a move for Guardiola is not currently considered imminent, his potential availability has been discussed within the federation.
