Italy’s disappointing exit from the European Championship has raised questions about Luciano Spalletti’s future as the head coach of the national team. Despite signing a three-year contract less than a year ago, the defeat to Switzerland led to speculation about his position. However, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president, Gabriele Gravina, confirmed that Spalletti will remain in his role.
Gravina emphasized that abandoning a project after just eight or nine months would be unthinkable. He acknowledged that changes and revisions need to be made in terms of approach but stated that the project is a long-term one. The FIGC president expressed the need for deep reflections and growth for the team.
Spalletti himself admitted to making mistakes and acknowledged the need to rejuvenate the team. Despite the disappointment, he is determined to continue his work with the national team and learn from the experience. Looking ahead, Italy’s next fixtures in September will be against France and Israel in the Nations League.
Switzerland’s victory over Italy means they will now face either England or Slovakia in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. The Swiss showcased their superiority in every facet of the game against Italy, indicating that they will pose a formidable challenge to any opponent.
Italy’s Euro 2024 campaign was marred by conceding the first goal in all four of their matches. This lack of defensive solidity was a significant factor in their early exit from the tournament. Going forward, addressing this issue will be crucial for Spalletti and his team.
The decision to retain Spalletti as head coach despite the disappointment reflects a commitment to stability and long-term development. While the European Championship exit was undoubtedly a setback for Italy, it also presents an opportunity for reflection and growth. With key fixtures on the horizon, Spalletti will have the chance to make adjustments and rejuvenate the team, aiming for improved performances in the future.