The Italian national team has been left in shock ahead of the 2026 World Cup after Claudio Ranieri rejected the offer to become head coach following Luciano Spalletti's dismissal.

Claudio Ranieri has officially declined the chance to take over as Italy's national team head coach, choosing instead to continue his commitment to AS Roma in an advisory capacity. With Ranieri out of contention,

Claudio Ranieri said on Tuesday he has turned down the vacant Italy manager's job, after the four-times world champions sacked Luciano Spalletti, and will stay on with AS Roma as their senior advisor.