Roberto Mancini facing dismissal (Image: Getty)
Former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is set to be sacked as Saudi Arabia manager after just 14 months in charge, according to the Mirror. The Italian tactician is under intense scrutiny in the Middle East after a lackluster start to his World Cup qualifying campaign, securing just one win in the opening four matches.
The pressure intensified for Mancini during a goalless draw against Bahrain on Tuesday, where he was seen apparently cursing the home fans in frustration. Additionally, the 59-year-old has openly criticized the Saudi Pro League, lamenting the negative effects of high-profile signings on the national team.
At a fiery press conference earlier this month, he lambasted the fact that “50 to 60 percent” of Saudi players do not get playing time in their country.
Mancini, who led Italy to Euro 2020 glory, could face a hefty severance package if he is laid off, given his contract in August 2023 is expected to run until 2027. Tension around his position has intensified since January, when he faced fierce criticism for emerging from the tunnel prematurely as South Korea scored the winning penalty in their Cup second round triumph of Asia against Saudi Arabia.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1964196/roberto-mancini-facing-sack-saudi