Ranieri Takes Helm as Italy's Technical Director, Targets Youth Development

Claudio Ranieri was named technical director of Italy's national football program after the surprising reinstatement of Roberto Mancini as head coach. In this capacity, Ranieri will supervise the structure of all Italian national squads and drive long-term reforms, especially in youth coaching. He argues that Italian training has become overly tactical and wants coaches to emphasize dribbling, creativity and individual technique for children between ten and twelve.

Ranieri also highlighted the need to lower the cost of football academies, noting that escalating fees are steering youngsters toward other activities. His appointment follows a brief spell managing Roma in the 2024/25 season, where he guided the club to a fifth-place Serie A finish, one point shy of Champions League qualification. He expressed a desire to rekindle fan passion for the Azzurri and ensure future generations can envision Italy competing in World Cups.