Gattuso hasn't arrived yet, and there's Gianluigi Buffon's lingering presence/threat in the Italian national team.

Gianluigi Buffon, the current Head of Delegation for the Italian national football team, has reportedly indicated his intention to resign from his position should Roberto Mancini be reinstated as the Azzurri's head coach. This development introduces a new layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions surrounding the leadership of the national squad.

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Mancini, who led Italy to victory at Euro 2020, departed from his role in August 2023 to take up the managerial position with the Saudi Arabian national team. His departure at that time was followed by the appointment of Luciano Spalletti, who subsequently guided Italy to qualification for Euro 2024. The prospect of Mancini’s return, even as a speculative possibility, has evidently prompted a firm stance from Buffon.

Sources close to the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) suggest that Buffon’s perceived threat of resignation stems from a fundamental disagreement with the potential re-appointment of Mancini. While specific reasons for this strong opposition have not been publicly detailed by Buffon or the FIGC, the mere mention of such a drastic step by a figure of Buffon’s stature highlights significant internal tensions or philosophical differences regarding the direction of the national team.

Buffon, a legendary figure in Italian football with an extensive playing career that includes a FIFA World Cup title in 2006, transitioned into his current administrative role following his retirement from active play. His position as Head of Delegation places him in a crucial interface between the players, coaching staff, and the federation leadership. His responsibilities include fostering team cohesion, maintaining discipline, and representing the squad's interests. A resignation from this role by someone of Buffon’s influence would undoubtedly send ripples through the Italian football establishment.

The context of these reports coincides with a period of assessment for the Italian national team following recent performances and ahead of upcoming international commitments. The potential return of a former coach, especially one whose departure was relatively recent, could signify a shift in strategy or an acknowledgment of past successes. However, Buffon’s alleged ultimatum suggests that such a move might not be universally supported within the federation’s key figures.

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Neither Gianluigi Buffon nor the Italian Football Federation has issued an official statement directly confirming or denying these specific reports regarding Buffon's threat to resign. However, the information circulating within football circles indicates a clear line drawn by the Head of Delegation concerning Roberto Mancini’s potential involvement with the national team in a coaching capacity. This situation underscores the delicate balance of power and differing visions that can exist within national football organizations, particularly concerning the appointment of such a critical role as the national team manager. The resolution of this matter will undoubtedly be closely watched as Italy prepares for future competitions.