In a stunning pre-match revelation, Italy national football team manager Luciano Spalletti announced that he will step down after Italy’s World Cup qualifying clash against Moldova. This match turned out to be his final game in charge.
During Sunday’s press conference, the 66-year-old coach revealed he had no intention of quitting, but was told directly by FIGC (Italian Football Federation) president Gabriele Gravina that he had been relieved of his duties.
“He told me I’m no longer the head coach of Italy. I still wanted to continue, but that decision was already made.”
Poor Results Spark Dismissal
The FIGC’s decision came on the back of Italy’s dismal 0-3 defeat away to Norway, a result that equalled Italy’s heaviest loss in a World Cup qualifier and put their qualification hopes in serious jeopardy. Earlier in March, Italy were knocked out of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals after losing 4-5 on aggregate to Germany.
Spalletti, who took over the national team in the summer of 2023, managed 23 matches with 11 wins, 6 draws, and 6 losses, a win rate of just 47.8%. According to reports, the Italian football leadership no longer believed he was the right man to guide Italy to the 2026 World Cup.
Despite the decision, Spalletti remained professional to the end, leading Italy to a 2-0 victory over Moldova in what became his farewell match.
“I will finish my duties after this match. I’ve always believed in the quality of these players,” he said after the game. “But I take full responsibility for the results during my time here.”
Donnarumma Pays Tribute to Departing Coach
Following the match, team captain Gianluigi Donnarumma gave an emotional interview, saying the team had been through a “challenging few days.”
“The coach deserved this win. It hasn’t been easy, and we could’ve done better, especially in the match against Norway. That kind of attitude is unacceptable for a team like ours.”
When asked about the mood at the Coverciano training centre, Donnarumma added: “We all feel a strong connection with the coaching staff. This was a hard moment. Spalletti gave everything right up until the final training session, a true professional and a man of character.”
He also reflected on the team’s inconsistencies under Spalletti’s leadership:
“After the Euros, we had some great moments, but we never built a stable system. In crucial matches, we lacked fighting spirit, and for that, we players are also responsible.”
Ranieri Eyed as Potential Replacement
With Spalletti’s exit confirmed, the Italian FA is now searching for a new head coach. According to several Italian media outlets, Claudio Ranieri, who helped revive Roma last season in a short-term role, is considered the top candidate by president Gravina.
Ranieri, currently serving as a consultant at Roma, responded cautiously to speculation. “It’s an honour to be linked with the national team, but I commit to Roma. I intend to honour it,” he said.
As the dust settles, Donnarumma urged the team to regroup and focus on their ultimate goal: qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“We can’t miss another World Cup, it’s unthinkable. I’m confident in the coach who’ll come next. As for the captain’s armband, that decision will be up to the new boss. No matter what happens, I’ll always give my all for Italy.”
