Jun 24, 2014; Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, BRAZIL; Italy manager Cesare Prandelli looks on before their 2014 World Cup game against Uruguay at Estadio das Dunas. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Italian national team manager Cesare Prandelli has submitted his letter of resignation to the Italian Football Authority today, shortly after the Azzuri came crashing out of the 2014 World Cup. Prandelli’s Italy started off the group stages with a strong victory over England in the jungle city of Manaus, but came up short against the surprising Costa Rica and the Luis Suarez led Uruguay.
"Prandelli stated ” The technical set-up didn’t work, and I take all responsibility for that. Something has changed since my contract was renewed. I don’t know why. I chose a certain technical plan and that’s why I’m resigning – because it did not work.”"
Prandelli led the Azzuri to 2nd place in the 2012 European Championships in Poland/Ukraine after taking over for Marcello Lippi in 2010. The Italians also finished 3rd in last years Confederations Cup. However this is the first time the Italians have failed to advance from the group stages in 2 consecutive World Cups since Brazil in 1962 and England 1966; Prandelli seems convinced his time at the helm of the national side should be over.
The president of the Italian Football Federation, Giancarlo Abete, also confirmed his resignation from the F.I.G.C, although Abete explained that his decision was made well before the World Cup.
He also expressed his hope that Prandelli would reconsider his resignation. Abete stated that “I do hope that at the forthcoming meeting of the board, they can persuade Cesare to reconsider his position”.
Personally, I was expecting much more from Italy at this World Cup. Perhaps changes at the top were necessary to allow the Azzuri to rebuild and return to the summit of international competitions.
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