Italy rejected again! Stefano Pioli follows Claudio Ranieri's example and turns down national team job to make Serie A return from Al-Nassr

According to a report by Gianluca Dimarzio, Italy’s search for a new national team coach after sacking Spalletti is getting tougher, as Pioli has turned down an approach with the intention of taking the hot seat at Serie A outfit Fiorentina instead.

The poor football displayed by Italy under the tutelage of Spalletti compelled the Italian football association (FIGC) to fire him. The Azzuri had two favourites to replace the 66-year-old in the form of Ranieri and Pioli. After Ranieri swore commitment to Roma and rejected the double role on offer, Gabriele Gavina, the FIGC president, and other stakeholders turned their sights to the former Milan boss. However, now, Pioli too has rejected them and is all set to join La Viola.

Pioli is contracted with Saudi Pro League heavyweights Al-Nassr until 2027, but is expected to return to Serie A this summer. After joining the Cristiano Ronaldo-led outfit last September, he managed them for 44 games, winning 28, losing nine and drawing seven.

Italy will have to finalise their new head coach before the next set of World Cup Qualifiers in September, where they will face Estonia and Israel.