Just days before Italy’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Moldova, head coach Luciano Spalletti dropped a bombshell—he’s been sacked.
And the announcement didn’t come through a press release or federation statement.
Nope, Spalletti himself confirmed it right in front of the media… then promptly stormed out of the press conference.
Spalletti Confirms His Exit — But Says He Didn’t Want to Go
In a move that stunned reporters, Spalletti, 66, revealed that his time as Italy boss was over.
What made it even more dramatic? He made it clear that this wasn’t his choice.
He had wanted to stay on and continue leading the national team through their qualifying campaign, but the decision had apparently been taken out of his hands.
Friday’s Defeat to Norway Triggered the Fallout
The tension had been building.
Italy suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Norway on Friday—a heavy blow in their opening group stage match.
With only one automatic qualification spot up for grabs, the result left Italy with an uphill battle and Norway comfortably leading the table with nine points.
It wasn’t just the fans who were furious.
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma didn’t mince words, calling the result “not acceptable.”
That loss prompted intense behind-the-scenes discussions, including crisis talks between Spalletti and the president of the Italian Football Federation, Gabriele Gravina.
The Federation Stays Quiet, But Spalletti Takes the Mic
Interestingly, as of Sunday afternoon, there was still no official confirmation from the federation regarding Spalletti’s dismissal.
But that didn’t stop the coach from going public.
Whether it was a last show of defiance or a move to set the record straight, Spalletti made sure the world knew—he had been let go.
And then, just like that, he exited the press conference, leaving reporters stunned.
What Happens Next for the Azzurri?
With a huge qualifier looming on Monday against Moldova, the timing of Spalletti’s departure couldn’t be more chaotic.
Italy are now facing a leadership vacuum at a critical point in their campaign.
The question on everyone’s mind now: who steps in to steady the ship before things get worse?