Italy’s recent history is defined by a sharp contrast. The Euro 2020 triumph proved Mancini could build a confident, possession-based side capable of beating elite opposition. The World Cup absences, however, exposed a failure to maintain that level across qualification campaigns.
The new challenge is to turn one tournament-winning generation into a sustainable national team. That means reducing reliance on familiar names while ensuring the next group is ready for pressure immediately.
A youth-focused rebuild cannot be measured simply by the number of young players selected. Mancini must create a structure that allows emerging talent to play with purpose rather than carry the burden of restoring Italy’s reputation.
Gianluigi Donnarumma is central to that balance. The goalkeeper remains a link to the Euro 2020 winners and offers experience in a squad expected to contain several less-established internationals. His perspective will matter as Italy attempt to combine renewal with stability.
The strongest rebuilds usually preserve a small senior spine while introducing younger players in clearly defined roles. Italy’s next team will need both ambition and defensive discipline, qualities that have often separated tournament contenders from qualification disappointments.
Mancini’s return will be judged quickly. Italy cannot afford another cycle built only on promise; qualification progress must become visible in competitive results. His familiarity with the national setup is an advantage, but it also raises expectations because supporters know what his best team can produce.
The next qualification window will provide the first real test of the revolution. The key storyline will be whether Mancini can turn Donnarumma’s experience and emerging talent into a team capable of ending Italy’s World Cup exile.