Capello Urges Conte’s Return to Italy, Says Mancini’s Chance Passed Three Years Ago

FolioPitch.com – 26 June 2026 | Fabio Capello has weighed in on the heated debate over who should lead the Italian national team, asserting that ‘Capello The right time for Conte to return to Italy Mancini was done 3 summers ago’. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the veteran coach made it clear that Antonio Conte is the ideal candidate to revive the Azzurri after a period of stagnation.

‘Capello The right time for Conte to return to Italy Mancini was done 3 summers ago’ is not just a phrase but a conviction. Capello argued that Conte’s immediate impact and proven ability to galvanize teams make him the perfect shock therapy for Italian football. He recalled Conte’s performance at EURO 2016, where an injury-hit squad nearly beat Germany on penalties.

Capello did not mince words about Roberto Mancini. Although he acknowledged Mancini’s Euro 2021 triumph, he believes Mancini’s abrupt departure to Saudi Arabia in 2023 sealed his fate. ‘Capello The right time for Conte to return to Italy Mancini was done 3 summers ago’, he repeated, emphasizing the recentness of that decision. ‘It was done three summers ago. The facts are too recent to be forgotten.’

With Giovanni Malago now at the helm of the FIGC, the hunt for a new head coach is a top priority. Conte and Mancini remain frontrunners, but Capello’s endorsement of Conte could sway opinions. He also praised U21 coach Silvio Baldini, but insisted Conte’s experience and winning mentality are unmatched.

The article explores the implications of Capello’s statements, noting that Conte has expressed a desire to return to the national team. Italy’s young talents, as seen in recent friendlies, need a strong leader to blend with seasoned stars. Conte, according to Capello, is that leader.

In conclusion, Capello’s message is clear: ‘Capello The right time for Conte to return to Italy Mancini was done 3 summers ago’ is both a prediction and a plea. The Italian football federation must now decide whether to heed his advice.