Luciano Spalletti has announced his own sacking as Italy's head coach at a news conference on Sunday. This decision followed Italy's 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening World Cup qualifier for the 2026 tournament on Friday. Italy conceded three goals in the first half in Oslo, marking a difficult start to their qualifying campaign.

The 66-year-old coach confirmed he would still manage Monday's game against Moldova, which will be his last with the national team. "Last night we were very together with president [Gabriele] Gravina. He told me that I will be relieved of my position as coach of the national team," Spalletti revealed. He added, "I had no intention of giving up. I would have preferred to stay in my place and continue doing my job. I'll be there tomorrow evening against Moldova, then we'll resolve the contract." Spalletti reportedly left the news conference abruptly after making these statements.

Appointed in 2023, Spalletti's tenure included leading Italy at Euro 2024, where they were eliminated in the last 16 by Switzerland. His record as Azzurri head coach stands at 11 wins in 23 matches. Before taking the national team role, Spalletti had a notable career in Serie A, managing clubs such as Napoli, Inter Milan, and Roma, and famously led Napoli to a Serie A title before his national team appointment.

Italy is currently in Group I of the UEFA World Cup qualifying stage, alongside Norway, Moldova, Estonia, and Israel. Despite his impending departure, Spalletti emphasized his commitment for the final match: "I'll be there tomorrow night against Moldova. These are the results under my management and I have to take responsibility. I love this shirt, this job and the players I've coached. Tomorrow night I'll ask them to demonstrate what I asked even if I haven't been able to get them to express their best."