Claudio Ranieri explains no to national team bench

Now it’s official. Claudio Ranieri has turned down the bench of the national team, which remained vacant after the’departure of Luciano Spalletti. Gabriele Gravina’s plan to entrust the’former Roma coach with the task of saving Italy and taking it to the World Cup has foundered.

The coach’s decision to turn down the bench is now official.

It was Claudio Ranieri himself who explained the reason for his refusal: “I thank President Gravina for the opportunity, a great honor, but I have reflected and decided to remain at Roma”s disposal in my new position totally” his words released to Ansa.

Problems with the Fridkins? Absolutely not. The ownership of the Giallorossi club was willing to allow the’current Roma adviser to play the dual role but Claudio Ranieri preferred to make other choices: “The Fridkins gave me their full support and backing for whatever decision I had made regarding the national team, but the decision is mine alone”, his closing remark.

At this point, FIGC is forced to find a new solution. Suddenly, so many names again in play, starting with Stefano Pioli (also being hinted at Fiorentina). In fact, at the moment, there would not be a favorite, partly because president Gabriele Gravina seemed confident of convincing Claudio Ranieri to take over as coach of the Azzurri. The bench of the national team, right now, is definitely a challenge for everyone.