Donnarumma urges Italy unity as Mancini returns after World Cup failure
Gianluigi Donnarumma has urged Italy supporters to stay behind the national team as Roberto Mancini begins a second spell in charge following the Azzurri’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Italy regroup after World Cup setback
Italy will miss a third straight World Cup despite being four-time winners, with the 2026 tournament in North America set to take place without them. The summer disappointment brought the exits of Gennaro Gattuso and a number of senior federation officials.
Donnarumma, now Manchester City’s goalkeeper, said the squad found it painful to watch the tournament from outside it.
- He said the summer had been difficult for every member of the group.
- The goalkeeper described being absent from the World Cup as heartbreaking for the players.
- His message was that Italy have no choice but to recover and move forward.
Donnarumma asks fans for Nations League backing
Italy’s opening Nations League fixtures will be the first opportunity for the team to start repairing the damage, and Donnarumma wants the supporters to play their part.
He said the squad need optimism after an emotionally draining summer, adding that the players must create a stronger group and change the direction of the national side. Donnarumma thanked fans planning to attend the upcoming matches, saying their energy and encouragement will be vital as Italy attempt to reshape their future.
Mancini return puts Euro 2028 in focus
Mancini’s return has given Italy a route back to the coach who delivered Euro 2020, and Donnarumma believes the former European champions can recover their edge under him.
- Mancini led Italy to the delayed Euro 2020 title in 2021.
- Italy’s immediate aim is to come through the next matches and qualification campaign.
- Euro 2028, staged across the United Kingdom and Ireland, has become the major redemption target.
- Donnarumma said he expects Mancini to restore the hunger needed for Italy to qualify for both the Euros and a future World Cup.
Wembley memories drive Donnarumma
A return to Wembley for Euro 2028 would carry special meaning for Donnarumma. The stadium hosted Italy’s penalty-shootout victory over England in the Euro 2020 final, when the goalkeeper made decisive saves.
Donnarumma said Wembley represents one of the greatest moments of his life, alongside the birth of his son. He also recalled the embrace between Mancini and the late Gianluca Vialli after the final, calling it an unforgettable image.
What happens next: Italy begin their Nations League campaign looking to rebuild confidence quickly, with Mancini tasked with turning the post-World Cup frustration into a successful push towards Euro 2028.
