Italy boss Luciano Spalletti has confirmed he will leave his role as national team boss after Monday's World Cup qualifier against Moldova.
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Italy hammered by Norway last time outLuciano Spalletti confirms exitWill move on after Moldova matchFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Italy fans were left furious by Friday's 3-0 humbling at the hands of Norway in World Cup qualifying. Many supporters have demanded Claudio Ranieri be appointed Italy boss, and a new manager will now be needed as Spalletti has confirmed his time in charge is over.
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He told reporters at a press conference: "Last night I spoke with the president quite a bit, we are always in touch. He told me that I will be relieved of my duties as technical commissioner of the national team. I was sorry, given the relationship we have. I had no intention of giving up, especially when things aren't going well I prefer to stay in my position and do my job, but then I have to take note of the dismissal. I have to take note of the path, the results and his availability towards me because some bad results have come out. For me it was a service to the country and therefore it is my intention to facilitate the future of the national team in every way. It is right to do so and seek the best. Against Moldova I will sit on the bench, then I will terminate the contract."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Italian surprise 3-0 loss to Norway comes on the back of Italy's four-game winless run, which saw them knocked out of the Nations League. The 2006 world champions are looking to avoid missing their third-straight World Cup as they now sit fourth in their qualifying group.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR ITALY?
Ranieri is the fan favourite to take over from Spalletti this summer, however, it is uncertain whether the former Leicester City boss will be open to joining the Italian national team. Spalletti will take on the duties of managing Gli Azzurri on Monday night for the final time, when his side take on Moldova.