Italy's Euro 2024 Debacle

Italy's performance at Euro 2024 was nothing short of disastrous, culminating in a humiliating 3-0 defeat against Norway. This match highlighted the glaring issues within the team, with Italy managing only two shots and a cumulative xG of 0.14 until the 29th minute of the second half. The defeat has left the Azzurri at serious risk of having to go through the World Cup playoffs once again, a scenario that has not ended well for them in recent years.

Spalletti's Exit

Luciano Spalletti's tenure as Italy manager came to an end in a manner befitting his eccentric style. Despite the crushing defeat, Spalletti did not resign immediately. Instead, his departure was finalized in a meeting with Italian FA chief Gabriele Gravina, resulting in a 'by mutual consent' separation. Spalletti was supposed to take charge of the home game against Moldova, but his candid remarks in an interview led to his immediate dismissal.

The Aftermath

Italy's 2-0 win over Moldova might seem like a positive outcome, but it was far from convincing. The team conceded 18 shots and an xG of 1.39, indicating underlying issues that need to be addressed. Spalletti's exit has brought to light the challenges of managing a national team, where tactical simplicity and quick player adaptation are crucial.

Looking Ahead

The new manager, likely to be Stefano Pioli or Claudio Ranieri, will have to navigate these challenges and steer Italy back on track. The focus will be on simplifying tactics and understanding the players' mentality to get the best out of them in limited training sessions. Spalletti's departure, though late, is a step in the right direction for Italy's football future.