Italy has fired coach Luciano Spalletti after a 3-0 loss to Norway in their World Cup qualifier. After missing the last two World Cups, Italy is now searching for a new leader to guide them to 2026 success.
A Sad Goodbye for Coach Spalletti
Italy, the four-time World Cup champions, are facing big problems again. After missing the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, they wanted to do better this time. But things are not going well. Italy lost 3-0 to Norway in their first 2026 World Cup qualifying match, and this loss has led to a major change in the team.
Italy Loses Big, Spalletti Loses His Job
The loss to Norway was a huge shock for Italian fans. The team looked weak, and many people could not believe the final score. After this bad result, the Italian Football Federation decided to fire head coach Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti confirmed this news himself. He spoke to the media and said, “I had a meeting with President Gravina last night. He told me I’m no longer the coach of Italy. I didn’t plan to resign. I wanted to continue and help the team.”
Spalletti’s Journey and Disappointments
Luciano Spalletti became Italy’s head coach in September 2023 after Roberto Mancini left. Fans had high hopes for him, but things did not go well. Italy didn’t play strongly in Euro 2024 and now started their World Cup qualifiers with a big defeat. Missing out on the last two World Cups already hurt the country, and this latest failure made things worse.
After losing to Norway in Oslo, the chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup have become much harder. That’s why the federation acted quickly and made this tough decision.
Spalletti Still Believes in the Team
Even after being removed, Spalletti said he would still be on the sideline for Italy’s next match against Moldova on Monday. He spoke with emotion, saying, “I love this jersey and the players. I still believe this team can reach the World Cup.”
Spalletti even broke down in tears during the press conference, showing how much he cared for the team and his job.
Final Thoughts
Italy now needs a new coach and new hope. With the road to the 2026 World Cup getting tougher, fans will be watching closely to see if the Azzurri can make a strong comeback.
