Roberto Mancini has confirmed that he will continue as Italy head coach, despite his team's failure to qualify for World Cup 2022.
The 57-year-old's future came into question following the Azzurri's shock 1-0 defeat at home to North Macedonia in their playoff semi-final last week.
Mancini initially refused to be drawn into a discussion regarding his future when speaking to reporters after the match; however, he has now revealed that he intends to remain in charge, following a conversation with the Italian FA, until his contract expires in May 2026.
"We need to start again. I talked to the president, we're in agreement on everything, we'll have time to discuss what we need to improve," Mancini told reporters, via Sky Sports News.
"I'm still young and I wanted to win a European Championship and a World Cup, we'll have to wait for the second a little bit. I like this work and I know that with the players we can organise again something important. Apart from the disappointment, everything else is moving forward.
"We need to start again with a new cycle. We have important matches coming up. We will certainly introduce younger players already in June for the Nations League. I hope they will get experience in their club. That's fundamental."
Since his appointment as Italy boss in May 2018, Mancini has taken charge of 47 international matches, winning 32, drawing 11 and losing four, and helped guide the Azzurri to Euro 2020 glory last summer.
The former Manchester City coach has previously been linked with the Manchester United vacancy.
Oliver Thomas
