Former Italy and Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has officially been appointed as the new head coach of Qatar Stars League side Al Sadd SC. The club confirmed that the deal will run for 2.5 seasons. The 60-year-old Italian takes charge after a period of inconsistency that has left Al Sadd with just 14 points from nine matches.
The reigning Qatari champions are sixth in the Qatar Stars League and winless in their AFC Champions League. They currently sit bottom in AFC Champions League Elite group after four matches. Roberto Mancini’s arrival marks a significant moment for Al Sadd. The Italian tactician’s immediate task will be to stabilize performances domestically and revive the team’s continental campaign.
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After leading Italy to European Championship glory in 2021, Roberto Mancini endured a difficult period that saw the Azzurri fail to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He resigned in August 2023 and soon took charge of Saudi Arabia, but his 14-month tenure ended in October 2024 following a disappointing Asian Cup campaign.
Since then, Roberto Mancini had been out of work, until Al Sadd’s improved offer reignited talks. Initially, reports suggested he had rejected the club’s first approach while waiting for a European project. However, negotiations resumed after Al Sadd returned with a stronger proposal that included an exit clause for summer 2026. For the Italian coach, this new beginning could define the next chapter of his illustrious career. Notably, Al-Sadd is the most successful club in Qatar.
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With fixtures against Al Ahli, Al-Sailiya, and Al-Wahda coming up, Mancini’s debut month promises to be a testing one. Known for his tactical structure and emphasis on attacking football, it remains to be seen if Mancini’s arrival can spark a turnaround for Al Sadd.
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