FIGC chief Malago arrives at Mancini’s Italy camp: ‘I’m an optimist by nature’

FIGC President Giovanni Malago visited Coverciano to show his support for Roberto Mancini ahead of Italy's Nations League opener against Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico on Friday. Upon arriving at the federal technical center, Malago was welcomed by Diana Bianchedi, the national team's recently appointed head of delegation, and expressed optimism about the Azzurri's fresh start.

Malago played a central role in Roberto Mancini's return as head coach in July alongside the appointment of Claudio Ranieri as technical director. Mancini took over following Gennaro Gattuso's departure by mutual consent after Italy's penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March, which caused them to miss a third consecutive World Cup.