Italy names Spalletti as new head coach

Luciano Spalletti will be the new head coach of Italy's national soccer team, the country's football federation said on Friday, replacing Roberto Mancini who resigned on Aug 13.

Spalletti, 64, led Napolilast season to its first Serie A title in 33 years, crowning a long club management career that has included spells at AS Roma, Inter, and a five-year stint with Russian club Zenit St Petersburg.

The Italian Football Federation said on its website that Spalletti would take up the post from Sept. 1.

"The national team needed a great coach and I'm very happy that he accepted," federation president Gabriele Gravina said. "His enthusiasm and his expertise will be fundamental for the challenges that await Italy in the coming months."

The statement gave no details about Spalletti's contract.