Fired Coach Spalletti to Depart from Italy national team post following the Moldova game
Headline: Spalletti Fired, Gattuso Now Favorite to Take Over As Italy's Coach
Luciano Spalletti has been shown the door as the coach of Italy's national football team. In a surprising turn of events, Spalletti announced his dismissal at a press conference prior to Italy's match against Moldova, following a humiliating 3-0 loss to Norway. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) decided to act after their disappointing performance in the World Cup qualifying campaign.
Spalletti took the Italian job in September 2023, replacing Roberto Mancini, but his tenure was short-lived. Despite leading Italy to Euro 2024, their poor showing there put him under pressure. Italy had won their opening game against Albania at the Euros last year in Germany, but disappointing losses to Spain and a late draw with Croatia advanced them to the last 16 where they were beaten 2-0 by Switzerland.
Their lackluster performance in the Nations League this year, including a 3-0 loss to Norway, ultimately sealed Spalletti's fate. As Italy faces an uphill battle to secure automatic qualification for next year's World Cup, the FIGC has decided to make a change.
Gennaro Gattuso, who has coaching experience with Milan, Napoli, and Valencia, is currently the favorite to replace Spalletti[1]. Initial speculation pointed to Claudio Ranieri taking over, but he has decided against it[1][2]. Other potential candidates include Daniele De Rossi and Fabio Cannavaro, while Roberto Mancini's return is still a possibility[1].
Spalletti, who led Napoli to the Scudetto in 2023, expressed his disappointment but remained optimistic about Italy's chances. "I was convinced I could get to the World Cup, and I remain convinced this national team can get there," he said. "I love this shirt, the players I have coached, and tomorrow night I will ask them to show everything they have."
The loss against Norway left Italy already facing a tough battle, but the team will be determined to get back on track against Moldova. Tears in his eyes, Spalletti left the press room, but his legacy with the Italian national team will undoubtedly be remembered.
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Sources:[1] "Gattuso, De Rossi, Cannavaro in the race for the Italy job" - The Guardian (link)[2] "Claudio Ranieri declines Italy coaching job" - BBC Sport (link)
Following Spalletti's departure, Gennaro Gattuso is currently the favored candidate to take over as Italy's coach, given his coaching experience with Milan, Napoli, and Valencia. Meanwhile, news from the UAE football association reveals the suspension of two players for five matches and a Dh500,000 fine.
