Former Napoli coach Spalletti given Italy job after Mancini’s resignation

MILAN (AP) — Luciano Spalletti was named as the brand new Italy coach on Friday, simply three months after he left Napoli saying he wanted a break.

Spalletti changed Roberto Mancini, who surprisingly resigned on Sunday after a blended tenure that included profitable the European Championship in 2021 however failing to qualify for the World Cup the next yr.

Spalletti _ the coach whose attacking techniques garnered plaudits from throughout Europe as he led Napoli to a primary Serie A in additional than three a long time final season _ had at all times been the frontrunner. The Italian soccer federation introduced it got here to an settlement with him.

The FIGC mentioned Spalletti will begin his new job on Sept. 1 forward of the Euro 2024 qualifiers in opposition to North Macedonia and Ukraine scheduled for Sept. 9 and 12, respectively.

It didn’t say how lengthy a contract the 64-year-old Spalletti was given however Italian media reported his deal ran till after the 2026 World Cup.