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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 41659, member: 636"]
Italy searches for a new national team coach after firing Luciano Spalletti following their 3-0 defeat against Norway. Italian media website Calcio Mercato reports that Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli lead the candidate list for the vacant position. Spalletti will manage one final match against Moldova before officially leaving his coaching role. The heavy loss during European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup cost him his job. Football officials want fresh leadership to guide Italy toward better results.

Stefano Pioli currently coaches Al Nassr but wants to return home and manage Italy. The former AC Milan boss shows strong interest despite having a contract with the Saudi team until July 10. Italian federation officials consider him their top choice because of his willingness to accept the national team position. Pioli must finish his Saudi Arabia duties before taking over Italy coaching responsibilities. His experience with top European clubs makes him attractive to federation leaders.

Claudio Ranieri presents a more difficult option because he wants to retire from active coaching. The veteran manager prefers his advisory role at AS Roma rather than returning to full-time coaching duties. Italian officials struggle to convince Ranieri to change his retirement plans and lead the national squad. His reluctance to take the job increases Pioli chances of becoming the next Italy coach. Federation leaders must decide quickly to prepare for upcoming international matches.
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