It’s never a good sign when a national team coach calls his own press conference to drop a bombshell.
But that’s exactly what happened with Luciano Spalletti.
Just days after Italy’s heavy defeat to Norway, the 66-year-old stunned reporters by confirming he had been sacked—even though he didn’t want to leave.
And yes, the press conference ended as awkwardly as it began.
Let’s break down what happened and what it means for Italy moving forward.
The Norway Defeat That Changed Everything
Italy’s 3-0 loss to Norway on Friday wasn’t just a bad day at the office—it was a result that set off alarm bells.
Even though it was only their first World Cup qualifying match in the group, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Only one team automatically goes through, and Norway is now sitting pretty at the top with nine points.
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma didn’t sugarcoat it either.
He called the result “not acceptable,” making it clear that pressure was mounting not just on the players, but on the coach as well.
Spalletti Confirms His Own Sacking
The Italian Football Federation hadn’t made any formal announcements about Spalletti’s status. But he took matters into his own hands.
In front of a room full of journalists, Spalletti dropped the news: he’d been told he was out.
“We spoke last night and they told me that I will be relieved of my position as national team head coach,” he said. “I had no intention of giving up.”
Clearly emotional, Spalletti made it known that he wasn’t planning to resign and still had plenty of fight left.
But the decision, it seems, had already been made without him.
No Resignation, Just Acceptance
Despite the sacking, Spalletti made it clear he was willing to keep working through the storm.
“I would have preferred to stay and do my job, especially when things aren’t going well.
However, if it’s an exoneration, then I have to accept it.”
He described coaching Italy as a “service to the homeland” and expressed deep affection for the team, the role, and the players.
He even said he’d be on the sidelines for Monday’s game against Moldova, a match that suddenly feels like the end of a chapter.
His Final Message to the Team
Spalletti wasn’t going to leave quietly. He spoke with passion and pride about the team and took full responsibility for the results during his tenure.
“The results under my management are what they are, and I have to take responsibility.
I love this shirt, this job, and the players I’ve coached.”
And with one last plea, he urged his squad to show their strength one more time—even if it might be the last time he leads them.
“Tomorrow night I will ask them to give what I’ve asked from them, even if I was not able to get them to show their best.”
Press Conference Turns Awkward
Just when it seemed like the press conference couldn’t get more intense, a reporter asked if he felt “betrayed.” Spalletti didn’t answer.
He sat silently for a few seconds, then stood up and walked out without a word.
That moment said it all—disappointment, frustration, and maybe a little heartbreak.
A Short and Tumultuous Reign
Spalletti only took over the Azzurri in August 2023, after Roberto Mancini’s sudden departure.
Under his leadership, Italy’s Euro 2024 campaign ended early, crashing out in the last-16 against Switzerland.
Over 23 games, he managed just 11 wins—an underwhelming record for a team with Italy’s expectations.
What Happens Next for Italy?
With a crucial qualifier against Moldova just around the corner and no permanent replacement officially named, Italy now finds itself in a tough spot.
Spalletti’s emotional farewell may mark the end of a short-lived chapter—but one that will be remembered for its raw honesty and abrupt end.
The bigger question now: who steps up to steer Italy toward the 2026 World Cup?