Claudio Ranieri explains why he rejected offer to coach Italy national team after Luciano Spalletti exit as Stefano Pioli emerges as new favourite

Former Roma manager Ranieri was the immediate favourite to take the job following Luciano Spalletti's sacking but has now confirmed that he has rejected the proposal, forcing the Italian football association (FIGC) to turn to former AC Milan boss Stefano Pioli as an alternative option.

After finishing the season with Roma, Ranieri chose to give up on the head coach role and has instead taken on an advisor role at the capital club. The FIGC had offered him the chance to manage the Azzuri in tandem with his Roma job, but this double role has not convinced him and he has chosen to commit to the Giallorossi. FIGC president Gabriele Gavina was in talks with Roma owner Dan Friedkin and had received a green signal to contact Ranieri. The 73-year-old was presented with a one-year contract along with the possibility of becoming the technical director. The former Roma boss discussed the situation with Friedkin and chose to side with the club.

Ranieri said to Ansa: “I thank President Gravina for the opportunity, a great honour, but I reflected and decided to remain at Roma's disposal in my new role in a total way. The Friedkins have given me their full support and backing for any decision I have made regarding the national team, but the decision is mine alone."

Italy will be back in action on September 5, against Estonia in the World Cup Qualification campaign, but albeit with a new manager at the helm as Spalletti has returned home.