Spalletti takes Italy job after ending Napoli’s long title drought

Luciano Spalletti, who led Napoli to the Serie A title last season, has been appointed coach of European champions Italy, the Italian football federation (FIGC) announced on Friday.

Spalletti takes over from Roberto Mancini, who resigned unexpectedly last Sunday after five years in the job.

Spalletti ended Napoli’s 33-year wait for the Serie A trophy last season before leaving his post.

The FIGC said in a statement they had “reached an agreement with Luciano Spalletti for the position of coach of the Italian national team starting from September 1.”

“Let’s welcome Spalletti,” said FIGC president Gabriele Gravina. “The national team needed a great coach and I am very happy that he accepted the technical guidance of the Azzurri.

“His enthusiasm and his expertise will be fundamental for the challenges that await Italy in the coming months”.

Spalletti’s official presentation will take place at the national training centre at Coverciano, ne

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