Luciano Spalletti is conducting his final training session as the head coach of the Italian national football team following his announcement to leave after Monday`s World Cup qualifier against Moldova. Let`s examine the events leading to Spalletti`s departure and what lies ahead for Italian football.
Spalletti Confirms Exit in Press Conference
Two days after Italy`s disappointing 3-0 loss to Norway in their first World Cup qualifier, Spalletti revealed during a pre-match press conference that he would be stepping down from his position. He stated that FIGC President Gabriele Gravina had informed him of his dismissal, but Spalletti indicated he would resign after the Moldova match on Monday night.
This announcement comes in the wake of Italy`s poor performance in the recent Euro 2024, where they were eliminated in the round of 16 after a 2-0 loss to Switzerland. Despite some initial success in the Nations League campaign following Euro 2024, including victories over France, Israel, and Belgium, Italy finished second in their group and were subsequently eliminated by Germany in the quarter-finals.
What`s Next for Spalletti and Italy?
Spalletti will lead the team one last time in their World Cup qualifier against Moldova at the Mapei Stadium on Monday night. Following the match, he will negotiate the terms of his departure with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). Once his contract termination is finalized, Spalletti will be free to pursue other opportunities.
Meanwhile, Italy faces the challenge of finding a new head coach to guide the team through the now-complicated World Cup 2026 qualification process. Recent reports suggest that Stefano Pioli and Claudio Ranieri are the leading candidates for the position, with Pioli currently considered the more likely option.
As Italy looks to recover from recent setbacks and regain its competitive edge on the international stage, the choice of the new head coach will be crucial in shaping the team`s future prospects.