Chalien Dantes / Contributor

Italy has turned back to a familiar face, appointing Roberto Mancini as national men’s football team manager for a second time following a series of changes within the country’s football leadership.

Italy last qualified for the World Cup in 2014 when it was held in Brazil. 

The appointment comes just one day after Andrea Pirlo withdrew from the race for the job amid controversy surrounding his links to a Russian betting company. 

Italy had been searching for a new coach after Gennaro Gattuso stepped down in April, following the Azzurri’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup.

The changes extend beyond the touchline. Claudio Ranieri, who famously guided Leicester City to the Premier League title during the 2015-16 season, has been named Italy’s new technical director.

His appointment follows the resignation of Paolo Maldini, who had held the position for only two weeks, along with adviser Leonardo, after the decision not to appoint Pirlo as head coach.