Introduction

The UEFA Euro 2020 was an epic showdown featuring some of the finest footballing nations in the world. After enduring a two-year delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament finally took place in 2021. The final of the tournament was contested by Italy and England at Wembley Stadium. Italy convincingly won the final in a penalty shootout. One of the significant reasons behind Italy's victory was their coach, Roberto Mancini. The following article will analyze his impact on Italy's Euro 2020 triumph.

Mancini's Appointment

Roberto Mancini was appointed as Italy's national team coach after Italy's dismal performance in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Italy failed to qualify for the tournament, which came as a massive blow to their footballing pedigree. The country needed a new leader, a figure who could rejuvenate their footballing fortunes. Mancini was the perfect candidate for the job. He came with a wealth of experience, having won numerous domestic honours with Inter Milan and Manchester City. His appointment instilled a sense of optimism and belief among the Italian supporters.

The Winning Streak

One of the defining moments of Mancini's reign as Italy's coach was the team's winning streak. Italy's Euro 2020 triumph was part of a 34-match unbeaten run, which was a new record for the Italian national team. Mancini's tactics and team selection were spot-on, enabling Italy to dominate their opponents. His insistence on playing an attacking brand of football was a breath of fresh air, which helped the team's confidence grow.

The Squad Selection

Mancini was not afraid of taking tough decisions, including dropping some high-profile players. His focus was on selecting a squad that could play an attacking brand of football. The coach placed his trust in the younger players, providing them with an opportunity to show their skills on the big stage. The likes of Federico Chiesa, Nicolo Barella, and Manuel Locatelli repaid the coach's faith in them with some scintillating performances throughout the tournament.

Tactical Prowess

Mancini's tactical prowess was on full display throughout the tournament. He was not afraid of making tactical changes to gain an advantage over his opponents. For instance, in the semi-final against Spain, Italy adopted a new formation, which was a 4-4-2 diamond. The formation allowed Italy to control the midfield, which helped them in dominating possession and restricting Spain's attacking opportunities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Roberto Mancini's impact on Italy's Euro 2020 victory cannot be understated. He brought a sense of belief and optimism to the players and supporters. His tactical ingenuity and squad selection were vital in Italy's unbeaten run and their eventual triumph. Mancini's legacy with the national team is secure, and he will always be remembered as a significant figure in Italy's footballing history.