Claudio Ranieri confirmed on Tuesday that he has declined the opportunity to manage the Italian national team, following the recent dismissal of Luciano Spalletti, the four-time world champions’ former coach. Instead, he will continue his role as a senior advisor at AS Roma.
Spalletti, aged 66, announced his departure on Sunday after Italy suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening World Cup qualifier last Friday.
Ranieri, who recently announced his retirement for a second time after his tenure at Roma last season, expressed his gratitude for the job offer from Gabriele Gravina, the President of the Italian Football Federation.
“I wish to thank President Gravina for presenting me with this opportunity—it is a tremendous honour. However, after careful consideration, I have resolved to dedicate myself fully to my new role at Roma,” he told Italian news agency ANSA.
“The Friedkins, the owners of Roma, have provided me with their complete support regarding any decision I made about the national team, but ultimately, the choice belongs to me alone.”
Last season, Ranieri guided Roma to a fifth-place finish in Serie A, securing qualification for the Europa League. The 73-year-old has now been succeeded by former Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini at the club.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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