ROME – The Italian national team is in turmoil as head coach Luciano Spalletti has been fired amidst growing concerns that the four-time World Cup champions could miss their third consecutive appearance in the prestigious tournament.
Spalletti announced his dismissal on Sunday, just days after a devastating 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening World Cup qualifier. The loss has heightened anxieties about Italy's chances of securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup, leading to the drastic decision by the Italian soccer federation (FIGC).
“Last night I had a conversation with the president (Italian soccer federation president Gabriele Gravina) and he told me that I would be fired,” Spalletti stated during a pre-match press conference. “I didn’t have any intention on (leaving) and I would have preferred to stay on. But it’s a sacking and I realize that.”
The FIGC has yet to name a replacement, leaving the team in a state of uncertainty. Reports suggest that Claudio Ranieri, fresh off a successful season with Roma, is the leading candidate. However, Ranieri had previously indicated his intention to retire from coaching, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Spalletti's tenure began in August 2023 after Roberto Mancini's unexpected departure to manage Saudi Arabia's national team. He signed a three-year contract with the goal of leading Italy to the 2026 World Cup. However, a disappointing performance in last year's European Championship, culminating in a 2-0 loss to Switzerland in the round of 16, and an embarrassing Nations League quarterfinal exit against Germany further jeopardized his position.
The Nations League defeat resulted in Italy being placed in a challenging five-team World Cup qualifying group featuring Erling Haaland's Norway, instead of a more favorable four-team group. Winning the group is now the only guaranteed path to direct qualification for the World Cup.
What's Next for Italy?
The immediate focus is on Italy's upcoming World Cup qualifier against Moldova. After that match, the team will not play again until September, providing the FIGC with ample time to appoint a new coach and develop a strategy to salvage their World Cup qualification hopes.
Key Challenges Ahead:
- Appointing a capable replacement for Spalletti
- Navigating a difficult qualifying group
- Boosting team morale after recent setbacks
The pressure is on for Italy to turn things around and avoid the embarrassment of missing a third consecutive World Cup.