Roberto Mancini: Departure from Saudi Arabia Sparks Controversy

Roberto Mancini has stepped down as head coach of Saudi Arabia's national soccer team by mutual consent. His resignation follows a lackluster performance at the Asian Cup and subsequent controversy. Mancini, a celebrated coach with multiple titles, had been hired in August 2023 after leaving Italy.

Roberto Mancini has parted ways with Saudi Arabia's national team as head coach, as confirmed by the country's soccer federation on Thursday. The decision to step down was reached by mutual consent.

Mancini, who led Italy to victory at the European Championship in 2021, boasts an impressive career as both a player and a manager, with titles won at Inter Milan and Manchester City. However, his recent stint with Saudi Arabia faced challenges, notably failing to progress past the Asian Cup's round of 16.

Adding to the controversy, Mancini exited before the conclusion of a key penalty shootout against South Korea, leaving fans and officials questioning his actions. Although he later apologized, the incident marred his brief tenure, which began just two weeks after his departure from Italy in August 2023.

(With inputs from agencies.)