Florence, June 8 (LaPresse) – “Last night, I spoke at length with President Gravina, and he informed me that I will be relieved of my duties as national team coach. I’m disappointed—I had no intention of stepping down,” said Luciano Spalletti, head coach of the Italian national team, this afternoon at the Coverciano technical center, where the Azzurri returned after their heavy defeat against Norway in Oslo. The team is now preparing for tomorrow night’s match at Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia against Moldova, the second fixture in the World Cup qualifying group.
“With these results, I’ve caused problems for the whole system. I’m disappointed in myself,” Spalletti said. “I was convinced I would definitely make it to the World Cup. Our players are strong, and I hope they show it already tomorrow night.”