Spalletti Commits to Juventus with New Deal, Closing Door on Italy Return

Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has penned a two-year contract extension with the Serie A club, effectively ending speculation about a potential return to the Italian national team coaching role.

The 67-year-old's commitment to Juventus comes amid widespread reports linking him with the vacant Italy manager position, which became available following Gennaro Gattuso's departure last week. Gattuso's resignation came in the wake of Italy's failure to qualify for a third successive men's World Cup.

Immediate Impact at Juventus

Spalletti took the helm at Juventus in October on a temporary arrangement, replacing Igor Tudor following the latter's dismissal. Juventus CEO Damien Comolli praised the manager's influence in an official statement.

"Since Luciano joined our great Juventus family, he has had an immediate and very positive impact on our players, the whole club and the entire Bianconeri community. It was immediately clear to everyone that Luciano was the right person to lead the team on a path of growth."

Decorated Managerial Career

Spalletti brings considerable pedigree to his Juventus role. The former Roma and Inter Milan boss achieved notable success at Napoli, guiding the club to their first Serie A championship in 33 years in 2023. He departed that summer to assume control of the Italy national team.

However, his international tenure proved disappointing. His Italy squad exited Euro 2024 at the last-16 stage, and he was subsequently sacked in June 2025 following a devastating 3-0 World Cup qualifier loss to Norway. Last March, Spalletti had stated that Napoli would be the final Italian club he would ever manage.

Current Juventus Standing

Juventus currently occupy fifth position in the Serie A standings with 57 points accumulated. The club sits just one point outside the Champions League qualification places, with seven matches still to play this season. They trail Serie A leaders Inter Milan by 15 points.