According to recent reports from Sky Sport Italia, former Italian international Gennaro Gattuso has emerged as the top candidate to succeed Luciano Spalletti as head coach of the Italian national soccer team.
Sky Sport Italia transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio revealed that Gattuso, who previously played for AC Milan and the Italian national team, is now the Italian Football Federation`s (FIGC) primary choice for the Azzurri coaching role.
Earlier reports had mentioned other potential candidates including Roberto Mancini, Daniele De Rossi, and Fabio Cannavaro. However, Di Marzio states that the FIGC is now primarily focused on Gattuso, who was part of Italy`s 2006 World Cup-winning squad.
Former Roma coach Claudio Ranieri was initially considered the leading option but declined the FIGC`s offer on Tuesday. Stefano Pioli, previously of AC Milan, was also in contention but has reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Fiorentina.
The Italian national team secured a 2-0 victory over Moldova on Tuesday in what was Spalletti`s final match as head coach.
Regarding his decision to turn down the national team role, Ranieri told ANSA: “I am grateful to President Gravina for the opportunity; it`s a great honor. However, after careful consideration, I`ve decided to remain fully committed to my new position at Roma. The Friedkins have given me their complete support, backing me regardless of any decision I might make about the national team. This decision is entirely my own.”