Mancini Takes Over As Saudi National Football Manager

Newly resigned manager of the Italian Under-21 National football team, Roberto Mancini, has taken over as Saudi Arabia's national team on a four-year deal. 

The announcement, which came after the much decorated football manager quit the Italian job in controversial circumstances, was made Sunday in a deal reported to be worth over $25m annually. 

He is taking over the Saudi job from Herve Renard after the latter quit the job shortly after guiding the team to humble eventual winner, Argentina, in Qatar 2022 World Cup. 

The 58 year-old Italian, who led the Azzuris to win the Euro title in 2020 however, failed to qualify the team to Qatar, said he was delighted at landing the Saudi job. 

“I am immensely honoured to be offered the position as Saudi Arabia national team manager,” Mancini said while inking the deal.

“I believe this is a great opportunity for me, to experience football in a new country, especially with the growing popularity of football in Asia," he added. 

According to him, the presence of some of the world's top quality players in the country makes it not only exciting but also creates the atmosphere for growth. 

“The presence of top players in the Saudi Pro League indicates the potential for growth in the national football scene.”

The Saudi Pro League boasts of some of the game's top players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Neymar Junior, Sadio Mane and a host of others. More of such top quality players are said to be on their way.