After taking some time for reflection, Claudio Ranieri told ANSA on Tuesday that he has turned down the chance to become the next Italy coach.
    The Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) turned to Ranieri after deciding to sack Luciano Spalletti following the Azzurri's 3-0 defeat in Norway in their first 2026 World Cup qualifier on Friday.
    But 73-year-old Ranieri, who pulled off the latest of his many feats last term by coming in at AS Roma in November and turning them around following a dire start to the season to qualify for next season's Europa League, said he wants to focus on his new executive position at Roma.
    "I thank (FIGC) President (Gabriele) Gravina for the opportunity, it's a great honour, but I have reflected and decided to remain at Roma's disposal in full in my new role in full," Ranieri said.
    "(Roma owners) the Friedkins gave me their full support and backing for whatever decision I made regarding the national team.

The decision is mine alone".
    Despite having been fired, Spalletti stayed in charge for Italy's second qualifier, Monday's laboured 2-0 win over Moldova in Reggio Emilia, a poor performance that showed the scale of the task in store for the new boss.
    The Norway defeat will make it difficult for Italy to finish first in the group to qualify directly for the World Cup.
    The Azzurri missed the last two World Cups after coming second in their qualifying group and then getting knocked out in the playoffs.
    Italy are currently third in qualification Group I with three points from two games, nine points behind leaders Norway, who have played four matches.

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