Italy sack coach Luciano Spalletti after Norway defeat in World Cup qualifier

MILAN – Luciano Spalletti has been sacked as Italy’s coach, following their 3-0 loss to Norway in their World Cup qualifying opener, but will take charge of the June 9 game against Moldova.

The 66-year-old Italian made the announcement at a press conference on June 8, two days after Norway stunned Italy in Oslo.

“Last night, we were together with (Italian football federation) president (Gabriele) Gravina. He told me that I will be relieved of my position as coach of the national team,” Spalletti said.

“I had no intention of giving up. I would have preferred to stay in my place and continue doing my job. I’ll be there tomorrow evening against Moldova, then we’ll resolve the contract.”

Spalletti’s dismissal comes after less than two years in the role, having replaced Roberto Mancini and taking charge in September 2023. While Spalletti took Italy to Euro 2024, their disappointing performance there had already put him under pressure.

Italy went into the Euro in Germany as defending champions, but after winning their opening game against Albania, they lost to eventual winners Spain and snatched a late draw with Croatia to make the last 16 where they were beaten 2-0 by Switzerland.

Spalletti’s side seemed to have recovered as they put in an impressive Nations League campaign, beating France 3-1 away and losing just once – away to Les Bleus in the final group game to finish behind them on goal difference in Group A2.

Italy began 2025 with a 2-1 loss at the San Siro in their Nations League quarter-final, first leg with Germany and found themselves 3-0 down at half-time in the return game in Dortmund.

The Azzurri came back to salvage a draw but missed out on a semi-final place after losing 5-4 on aggregate. When they fell 3-0 behind at the break against Norway, this time they had no reply.

The loss left Spalletti’s side already facing an uphill battle to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, and after missing out on the last two editions, the Italian football federation decided to act.

“I was convinced I could get to the World Cup, and I remain convinced this national team can get there,” Spalletti added.

When asked if he felt betrayed, he could hardly get any more words out and left the press room with tears in his eyes.

Spalletti, who previously managed the likes of AS Roma, Zenit St Petersburg and Inter Milan, came into the Italian job on the back of leading Napoli to the Scudetto in 2023, but was unable to bring that success to the national side.

Italian media reports suggest that 59-year-old Stefano Pioli, currently coach of Saudi club Al-Nassr and a Serie A title winner with AC Milan, is one of the favourites to replace him. Claudio Ranieri, who recently retired for a second time at 73 after his spell at Roma last season, is also reportedly in the frame. REUTERS