The Italian national team coach claimed he was forced to hand in his resignation to the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
During a press conference before Italy’s international match against Moldova, Spalletti confirmed that he will resign after the international break: “I will sign the termination of the contract with the Italian Football Federation on Tuesday.”
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But the former Roma, Inter and Napoli coach admitted that the decision was forced upon him, telling reporters: “I was told that I would be relieved of my duties. I had no intention of giving up. I’m sorry, I’d rather have stayed.”
Spalletti has been under a lot of pressure after Italy’s disappointing 3-0 loss to Norway in Oslo in his first World Cup qualifier.
The result makes it highly unlikely that Italy will top their qualifying group, meaning they will likely have to go through a play-off to avoid missing out on their third consecutive World Cup.
End of Spalletti
Spalletti was appointed Italy’s national team manager in August 2023, following the resignation of Roberto Mancini, who won Euro 2020.
There were high expectations for Spalletti, who came straight from leading Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years in the 2022/23 season.
But his tenure as national team manager has been disappointing. Italy narrowly avoided the Euro 2024 play-offs after Ukraine was controversially denied a penalty on the last matchday of qualifying. During the European Championship itself, Italy put in a weak performance and were knocked out in the round of 16 by Switzerland (2-0).
The results and play have not improved since, despite a slight upturn in September and October, and Italy’s form has been very poor lately.
They have conceded 11 goals in their last four games, kept just three clean sheets in Spalletti’s 23 games as coach, and it all culminated in the 3-0 loss to Norway that was the final straw.
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Stefano Pioli and Claudio Ranieri are the two clear favourites to take over from Spalletti.
