Claudio Ranieri, 73, SNUBS Italy for shock new job with club that just replaced him as manager
Former
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Luciano Spalletti stepped down as the Italy manager
Credit: Splash
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Claudio Ranieri has turned down the job
Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
But in a shock U-turn after days of discussions, self-proclaimed 'Tinkerman' Ranieri revealed he was turning down the job.
Ranieri left the
It was understood he had been sacked.
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Yet Ranieri has opted to STAY with Roma, in a consultancy role for owners the Friedkin family, rather than take charge of the Italy side, informing FA President Gabriele Gravina of his unexpected decision.
Ranieri explained: 'I thank President Gravina for the opportunity, a great honour.
'But I reflected and decided to remain at the disposal of Rome in my new role in a total way.
'The Friedkins have given me their full support and backing for any decision I made regarding the national team, but the decision is mine alone.'
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Ranieri, who was replaced at the club by former Atalanta chief Gian Piero Gasperini, added that it was HIS decision to end his managerial career.
He said: 'I decided to give up, the Friedkins had left me free to choose.
Scott McTominay dances with old fan while puffing on cigarette as never-ending Napoli title party continues
'But I had promised to stop. If I had wanted to continue we would not have taken Gasperini.
'Now I only want to think about Rome.'
Gravina is now starting the search for Spalletti's replacement all over again.
Spalletti's predecessor, Roberto Mancini, who quit in August 2023 but lasted just 14 months as
Gravina may also target former
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