It’s a chapter that closes sooner than expected. Luciano Spalletti is no longer the head coach of the Italian national team. Officially “sacked,” but in truth, it’s a divorce — one of those breakups you didn’t see coming this soon, yet the tension had been quietly building all along.

After less than a year in charge of the Azzurri, the man known as “Napoli’s architect” didn’t have time to truly shape a new Italy. He’s a man of long-term projects, of passion, of football played with soul — but found himself forced to improvise mid-construction, leading a team in transition, carrying old wounds, and under the pressure of an erupting volcano.

A Love Story That Never Truly Began

Let’s be honest: Spalletti was never the emotional favorite. He was appointed in a hurry, after Roberto Mancini’s surprise exit to Saudi Arabia. The former Napoli coach accepted more out of patriotism than genuine desire. Wearing the Azzurri shirt — even for a man of deep conviction — is not always enough to make a great story.

From the very first matches, the signs were there: a hesitant squad, tactical choices that didn’t convince, and a relationship with some key players that never quite clicked. And then came the results — or rather, the lack of memorable ones. No spark. No thrills. No grande bellezza.

The Euro: The Fatal Turning Point

Euro 2024 was supposed to be the moment of truth. A stage where Spalletti could finally leave his mark, unify the team, and bring hope back to Italian football. But as the tournament approached, doubts only grew stronger. Behind the scenes, tension was rising.

Disagreements with the federation about squad management, confusion over player selections, and above all, a style of play that failed to inspire fans and leadership alike. It wasn’t a marriage — it was a cold, quiet coexistence.

A Hurt Man, But Dignified

According to our sources, Spalletti wasn’t given much notice. A quick meeting, a few words, and the verdict: “Thank you, but we’re heading in a new direction.” A harsh blow for a man who, despite all the challenges, gave himself to the role with sincerity.

True to his character, Spalletti didn’t slam the door on his way out. He left with grace — no public outburst, no finger-pointing. He knows he shares part of the responsibility, but he also knows he never truly got the time or conditions to do things his way.

What Now?

The federation is already looking for a successor. Names are floating around: Conte, De Zerbi, Allegri… But whoever steps in will need to do better — under the same pressure, with just as little patience.

As for Spalletti, he’ll likely return to the sea — where he likes to think, to rebuild, to dream. Italy loses a passionate coach, a man of principles. And in a way, football loses a little piece of its soul too.