Italy FA chief Gravina backs Mancini to carry on as manager despite missing out on World Cup

Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President Gabriele Gravina has backed manager Roberto Mancini to continue with his role despite the team’s inability to qualify for this year’s World Cup in Qatar.

Since winning their fourth World Cup trophy in 2006, Italy have not played a knockout match in the World Cup, having won just one group stage match at the finals in that time.

“I hope Mancini continues with us,” Gravina said.

“He has a commitment with us for this project. I hope he can shake off this elimination just like all the Italians and that he remains at the helm to continue our work together.”

“Just as we accepted the praise last summer, we must accept the criticism coming our way, but I must try to protect this national team,” Gravina added.

“We go forward with heads held high. We must not lose the enthusiasm of last summer… Criticism is fine, but we don’t want the risk of doing even more damage.”