The Reds have appointed Vito Mannone, former Arsenal, Sunderland, and Reading goalkeeper, as a dual player-coach. The veteran goalkeeper will lead the goalkeeping department, overseeing all sessions and player development, while simultaneously remaining available for selection as a registered member of the playing team.
Mannone began his career in the Atalanta youth system before moving to Arsenal in 2005. During his stay in North London, he made 23 Arsenal appearances before joining Hull on loan for the 2010/11 season. Following the success of the loan stint, Mannone returned for a second Hull loan in January 2012 before completing the permanent transfer to Sunderland in 2013.
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The 6’2″ keeper went on to make 80 appearances for Sunderland before joining Reading in the summer of 2017. After two years with the Royals, Vito returned to Europe and played for Esbjerg FB, AS Monaco, FC Lorient, and Lille before leaving at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.
Following his hiring, Mannone stated, “I am delighted and proud to take on this role and can’t wait to meet everyone at the club and begin working with the staff and players.” I’ll offer all to the cause and want to pass on my playing experience, resulting in a good season.”
Colin Kazim-Richards, the club’s head coach, added: “To be able to add someone of Vito’s calibre to my coaching staff is a credit in itself.” His expertise, footballing experiences, playing at the top level with some of the finest coaches in terms of standards, what it takes, and ideas from a country that produces outstanding goalkeepers have really elevated us to the next level.
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