WHAT AZZ GONE WRONG WITH ITALY?

SOS call to Claudio as Spalletti is sacked with four-time champs in danger of missing a third World Cup

- BY NEIL MCLEMAN @NeilMcLeman

CLAUDIO RANIERI is the people's choice to be the next Italy coach - and save the four-time winners from missing a third consecutive World Cup.

Luciano Spalletti yesterday revealed in an emotional press conference he had been sacked following Friday's humiliating defeat to Norway - but will bizarrely remain in the job for tonight's crucial qualifier against Moldova.

The Azzurri have not appeared at a World Cup since 2014 after losing play-offs to Sweden in 2018 and North Macedonia in 2022 despite winning Euro 2020 at Wembley.

But the shambolic 3-0 defeat to Erling Haaland's side in their opening qualifying match for USA 2026 caused panic in the Italian game - and the sacking of Spalletti.

With Carlo Ancelotti now the Brazil boss, Ranieri (above) is favourite to bring his experience to the role after moving upstairs at Roma at the end of season.