FIGC President Gabriele Gravina stated that the federation will “take all the time available” before deciding on Italy`s next head coach, following the dismissal of Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti`s tenure ended after the 3-0 loss to Norway, remarkably just two days before he had to manage the team in another 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Italy secured a 2-0 win against Moldova on Monday evening, which means a new coach will be in charge for the squad`s next fixture in September.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia about the search progress, Gravina said, “There is no news, we are studying the situation. We have a few days at our disposal and we want to take all the time available to us.”
Potential Candidates and Challenges
Claudio Ranieri was reportedly approached for the role, but he is unavailable, having recently taken on a consultancy role with Roma and effectively retired from full-time coaching.
Gennaro Gattuso is now considered a leading candidate. He recently departed Hajduk Split by mutual consent and was notably part of Italy`s 2006 World Cup-winning squad.
Gravina emphasized that beyond specific individuals, the federation is focused on identifying “a new project.”
Gravina himself made the decision to dismiss Spalletti, whom he had appointed less than two years prior to replace Roberto Mancini amidst reported tension.
Expressing personal feelings about the decision, Gravina stated, “There is the feeling of great disappointment. Our world is also about sentiments and I must be honest, I have a splendid rapport with Luciano, which has only strengthened over the last few days. When a bond like this breaks, it does hurt me. He was the victim and recipient of so many attacks.”
