Pioli at a crossroads: what happens if Italy call? | OneFootball

Stefano Pioli is working to be released from Al-Nassr after reaching a preliminary agreement with Fiorentina, but what will happen if the FIGC calls him after Claudio Ranieri’s refusal?

Ranieri has turned down the chance to coach the Italy national team, opting to prioritise his commitment as an advisor to the Roma owners.

Pioli among Italy options to replace Spalletti

REGGIO NELL’EMILIA, ITALY – JUNE 09: Luciano Spalletti head coach of Italy reacts during the FIFA 2026 Qualifier between Italy and Moldova at Mapei Stadium – Citta’ del Tricolore on June 09, 2025 in Reggio nell’Emilia, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Pioli, a former Milan coach and winner of the 2021-22 Serie A, is now among the FIGC options to replace Ranieri. However, sources with direct knowledge of the matter tell me that the Italian tactician already has a verbal agreement with Fiorentina.

Pioli is formally under contract with Al-Nassr, but is working to be released from the Saudi Pro League side.

However, what will happen if FIGC call him to offer the Italy role?

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 22: Head Coach Stefano Pioli of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A TIM match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 22, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)

There will be more updates over the next few hours as Italy must replace Luciano Spalletti, who took charge of his final match as the Azzurri boss last night, beating Moldova 2-0.

Fiorentina have parted ways from Raffaele Palladino and have also contacted Francesco Farioli, though Pioli remains their primary target.

Ranieri explains Italy snub

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)

“I thank President Gravina for the opportunity; it’s a great honour. However, I have reflected and decided to remain fully committed to my new role at Roma,” Ranieri told ANSA on Tuesday morning.

“The Friedkins gave me full support, backing me regardless of any decision I could make about the national team; this decision is mine.”