A disastrous 3–0 defeat to Norway on Friday ultimately signalled the end of Spalletti’s reign two years after he was appointed. The Azzurri should have minimal trouble sweeping Moldova aside given the gulf in quality between the nations but it will serve as little consolation for the departing manager.

Luciano Spalletti has been sacked from his role as Italy's coach, with the manager announcing the decision himself on Sunday, following their heavy loss to Norway, but he will take charge of Monday's game against Moldova.

Italy coach Luciano Spalletti has said that Monday's World Cup qualifier against Moldova would be his last.Spalletti had come in for criticism after the Italian side lost 3-0 to Norway in their opening World Cup qualifying match last week.

In his own press conference, Luciano Spalletti reveals he has been sacked as Italy's head coach after his side lost 3-0 to Norway in a World Cup qualifier on Friday. But he will still take charge of their game against Moldova on Monday.

Italy coach Luciano Spalletti said on Sunday he has been sacked, days after a shock 3-0 defeat for the Azzurri in a World Cup qualifier in Norway which raised fears they could miss the finals a third straight time.