August 18, (THEWILL) – Luciano Spalletti is set to be appointed as the new coach of the Italian national football team, according to reports in the Italian media on Friday.
The former Napoli, Roma, and Inter manager has agreed a three-year deal to take charge of the Azzurri until 2026, after negotiations with Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president, Gabriele Gravina. He is expected to sign the contract on Friday or Saturday, before holding his first press conference in the role on Monday.
The 64-year-old led Napoli to the Serie A title last season, before stepping down as coach. He now faces the task of reviving Italy’s fortunes after their failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
Italy, who won the European Championships last year under Roberto Mancini, face crucial UEFA Nations League matches against North Macedonia and Ukraine in September.
Spalletti’s appointment has been held up by the €3 million compensation clause in his Napoli contract, which decreases by €250,000 each month. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has refused to waive the payment but talks continue.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
