Roberto Mancini Temporarily Steps Down as Al-Sadd Coach Amid Qatar Flight Ban
Roberto Mancini has temporarily stepped down from his role as head coach of Al-Sadd Football Club, unable to return to Qatar. This is due to an ongoing flight ban into the country, a consequence of the persisting regional conflict.
The former manager of Italy and Manchester City had previously received permission to leave Qatar last week for a family medical matter. His departure was pre-arranged and coordinated with the club's management ahead of their AFC Champions League Elite first leg fixture.
However, the escalating situation in the Gulf region has since grounded flights into the country, leaving Mancini stranded and unable to carry out his coaching duties.
Al-Sadd Confirms Temporary Coaching Change Due to Airspace Restrictions
Al-Sadd confirmed this development in an official statement on social media, announcing that assistant coach Sergio Alegre will temporarily take charge of the team for tomorrow’s match against Umm Salal.
The club also stated they are actively working to facilitate Mancini’s return at the earliest possible opportunity.
The Italian tactician has been at the helm of Al-Sadd since November, following his tenure with the Saudi Arabia national team and his controversial departure from the Italy job in 2023. The situation remains fluid and is entirely dependent on further developments in the broader regional conflict.
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