Ex-Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone starts next chapter with UEFA coaching badge in Northern Ireland
Former Sunderland, Arsenal and Hull City goalkeeper Vito Mannone has taken the first steps into the next phase of his career after enrolling on a UEFA coaching course with the Northern Irish FA.
The 38-year-old, who has now retired from professional football, shared the update with supporters on social media as he begins work towards his UEFA Goalkeeping A Licence.
Mannone remains a hugely popular figure on Wearside following his spell at the club between 2013 and 2017, where he established himself as a key player during one of Sunderland’s most memorable modern eras. Posting on Instagram, Mannone said: “Happy to officially be a UEFA GK A Candidate! Really enjoyed the first block of the UEFA GK A Diploma in Ireland, some great conversations and learning with a good group of coaches and tutors.”
Signed in 2013, the Italian initially had to wait for his chance but soon made the No 1 shirt his own, producing a series of standout performances - including helping the Black Cats reach the League Cup final and famously saving two penalties in the semi-final shootout victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.
His impact was recognised at the end of the 2013-14 campaign when he was named both the supporters’ player of the year and the club’s official player of the year. Mannone later played an important role in Sunderland’s successful fight for Premier League survival under Sam Allardyce during the 2015-16 season, keeping his place during a crucial run-in as the club secured safety in the top-flight once again.
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