Zidane, Mancini lead major national team managerial changes

The Story in Brief

Zinedine Zidane has taken charge of France after Didier Deschamps’ 14-year tenure, inheriting a talented squad and the task of matching a record that includes the 2018 World Cup triumph and two further deep tournament runs. Zidane said he would preserve continuity while introducing his own methods.

Italy have brought back Roberto Mancini after missing the last three World Cups. His appointment followed boardroom turmoil and Paolo Maldini’s resignation. Elsewhere, Jurgen Klopp has taken over Germany, Portugal have appointed veteran Jesus for the post-Cristiano Ronaldo era, and Croatia are preparing for Slaven Bilic’s second spell. Each appointment carries a different test, but results will define them.

The Indian Opinion

The easy story is that famous former players or celebrated coaches can instantly restore fallen giants. Football offers little proof of that. France’s strength gives Zidane room to work, while Italy’s recent absence from three World Cups points to deeper problems than one appointment. Claims of guaranteed revival, or of inevitable decline after a long-serving coach leaves, are equally lazy. The next qualifying campaign will show whether these changes improve results or merely rearrange expectations.

Source: thehindu.com

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