Claudio Ranieri has indicated his willingness to return to management with the Italian national team, should he receive a call-up. The former Leicester City manager made the comments while attending the Gianni di Marzio Awards, as reported by beIN SPORTS, following Leicester’s relegation to League One.
Ranieri expressed his sadness at Leicester’s fall from grace, stating that seeing the club in League One was “very, very sad.” The 72-year-old then pivoted to his own future, suggesting he would answer the call if Italy’s football federation approached him about the vacant national team position. Gennaro Gattuso previously managed the national side before departing the role.
Ranieri famously led Leicester to a Premier League title in the 2015-2016 season, a remarkable achievement considered one of the greatest upsets in football history. He has since managed several clubs, including Nantes, Fulham, and Cagliari, before a recent spell back at Leicester which ultimately ended in relegation. He previously served as an advisor to the Italian national team.
The Italian Football Federation is currently searching for a new manager, and Ranieri’s availability could present an attractive option. Didier Deschamps has also been mentioned as a potential candidate, adding further intrigue to the search. Ranieri’s experience and tactical acumen, earning him the nickname “The Tinkerman” during his career, could be valuable assets for the national team as they look to rebuild.
