Ranieri confession : ‘I could not do Italy and Roma jobs, wish Gattuso all the best’

TURIN, ITALY – MAY 25: Claudio Ranieri, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on prior to the Serie A match between Torino and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 25, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Claudio Ranieri explains why he had to turn down the Italy job, having just committed himself to Roma. ‘I cannot do two jobs, there would’ve been too many problems with me there. I wish Gennaro Gattuso all the best.’

When Luciano Spalletti was sacked in June, the first name on the list to take over the ailing Nazionale was Ranieri, who had just managed to revitalise Roma’s campaign to secure fifth place in Serie A.

However, he had already pledged to retire from management and begin a new role as special advisor to the Friedkin family, helping them move forward with another coach.

“I think it hurts anyone to say no to the Nazionale, but I cannot do two jobs,” Ranieri told TG3, via the Corriere dello Sport.

“I had a contract with Roma already and, unfortunately, I was unable to accept what the Federation had proposed.”

Ranieri torn between Italy and Roma commitment

The FIGC had suggested he continue doing both roles for the time being, but he felt this would inevitably create a conflict of interest.

“You need someone in that position who has the freedom to make his decisions and call whoever he wants. There would’ve been too many problems with me there. If a player was used for 90 minutes and then had to play Roma the next weekend… It was just too much.”

Instead, the job was given to Gattuso, who was in the Italy squad that won the 2006 World Cup, though his coaching history is less impressive.

“Gattuso has always tried to do well when he has been given the chance. He is someone who knows the Nazionale, fought hard, suffered for this team. I wish him all the best,” added Ranieri.

Meanwhile, Roma have begun their pre-season preparations with Gian Piero Gasperini, who must adapt to a new environment after nine years of success with Atalanta.

“I am a consultant to the Friedkins and I hope to do my job well. Gasperini has an important job, but slowly everything will fall into place. I didn’t expect this ending to my coaching career, especially as I arrived at Roma during a difficult moment. Thanks to the support and help of everyone, we managed to get things back on track.

“There are no regrets about missing out on the Champions League spot, I don’t want to be like the fox that can’t reach the grapes and then says they are bitter. Perhaps it was best it went this way. Facing all those superpowers in the Champions League, we are not ready right now. Hopefully, in a few years, we will be at the same level as those clubs.”