Claudio Ranieri, the seasoned Italian tactician and football icon, has returned to the helm of AS Roma as head coach until the end of the season—just six months after announcing his retirement. This marks the third time that the 73-year-old Roman takes charge of his hometown club, following stints in 2009 and a brief spell in 2019.
Roma confirmed Ranieri’s appointment after the sacking of Croatian manager Ivan Juric, who was let go on Sunday following a string of disappointing performances. Juric had been in charge for only 12 matches after replacing Daniele De Rossi, who had stepped in earlier in the season when former manager Jose Mourinho departed in January.
In addition to his managerial duties, Ranieri will serve in an advisory capacity for the club’s owners, providing insight and support in their search for a long-term manager. At the season’s close, he will transition into a senior executive role, giving him a new place in Roma’s structure as he moves away from the rigors of pitch-side management.
Ranieri, known best for his historic Premier League triumph with Leicester City in 2015-16, brings with him 37 years of experience, having managed 18 clubs across Europe as well as the Greek national team. Most recently, he guided Cagliari to survival in Serie A before retiring in May—a retirement now on pause as he returns to Rome.
Despite a summer spending spree exceeding £80 million, Roma’s performance has been below par this season. They currently sit 12th in Serie A with just 13 points from 12 games and are bottom of their Europa League group with five points from four matches. Roma’s ambitions for European competition and a top-tier league finish will rest heavily on Ranieri’s seasoned guidance, as they prepare to face Napoli on November 24.
The appointment comes amid Roma’s search for stability after rapid managerial turnover, with reports linking the club to high-profile names such as Roberto Mancini. The former Manchester City manager recently vacated his post as Saudi Arabia’s head coach, but for now, Roma’s faith rests on Ranieri’s wealth of experience and deep connection to the club.
For fans, Ranieri’s return offers a glimmer of hope and familiarity during turbulent times, as the Roman native looks to stabilize the team and steer them back on course. As the veteran manager assumes his new role, the Giallorossi faithful will hope for a resurgence under one of their own.
