Big shock in Italy! Ranieri refused the call

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) sacked coach Luciano Spalletti after a 3-0 defeat to Norway in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The FIGC, who started looking for a new coach without wasting time, made an offer to Claudio Ranieri, who parted ways with Roma.

RANIERI REFUSED THE CALL

Ranieri, who took the helm of his childhood love Roma, who had fallen on hard times after deciding to retire, and took the yellow-reds from 12th place to 5th, announced after the completion of the season that he was leaving his post as technical director and would now serve as chief advisor at Roma.

The 73-year-old coach, who is known to have plans to travel the world, said in a statement to ANSA that he rejected the coaching offer for the Italian national team and wanted to focus on his new managerial position at Roma, "I would like to thank Gabriele Gravina, President of the FIGC, for the opportunity he offered. It is a great honor, but I have thought about it and decided to remain at Roma's disposal in my new role. The Friedkins (owners of Roma) have given me their full support in every decision I have made regarding the national team. The decision is entirely mine," he said.

9 POINTS BEHIND THE LEADER IN THE QUALIFIERS

In Group I of the 2026 World Cup European Qualifiers, Italy are in third place with 3 points from two matches, 9 points behind leaders Norway who have 4 wins from 4 matches.