Luciano Spalletti to Step Down as Italy Head Coach with Immediate Effect
Following Italy’s 3–0 defeat to Norway in the opening fixture of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, reports suggest Luciano Spalletti has decided to step down as national team manager, effective immediately.
According to prominent Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Spalletti and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina are scheduled to meet on June 10 to assess the situation. The reverse fixture against Moldova on Monday will proceed under existing leadership, although no changes are expected before that match .
Under increased scrutiny following the Norwegian loss—which seriously complicates Italy’s path to direct World Cup qualification—Spalletti has hinted at an internal breakdown within the camp and the federation . Gravina has defended him, describing recent criticism as “unfair” and emphasizing ongoing dialogue .
Should Spalletti vacate the role, possible successors include Claudio Ranieri—recently appointed Roma advisor—and former AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli. Ranieri, 73, has expressed openness to returning to international coaching, while Pioli, currently with Al-Nassr, is reportedly unavailable until early July due to contractual obligations .
No comments:
Post a Comment