Conte is Italian first choice to replace sacked Ventura

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Italy are keen to take back former manager Antonio Conte following their dismissal of Gian Piero Ventura, the Italian Football Federation have confirmed.

The Azzurri are still in a period of mourning after failing to qualify for next year's World Cup - only the second time in their history they have failed to do so.


Ventura's days were soon numbered after Italy lost to Sweden over a two-legged play-off, failing to beat their opposition in Milan and in doing so shocking the football world.

After parting ways with the manager, the Azzurri are now firmly on the hunt for a fresh replacement at the helm, and many within the country's FA are keen to see Conte reinstalled as national boss.

Italian FA president Carlo Tavecchio has gone as far as to confirm Conte is a wanted man, addressing speculation this week regarding Ventura's successor.

Tavecchio told media, when asked about potential candidates such as Massimiliano Allegri or Roberto Mancini: 'Allegri and Mancini? You're getting warmer. Conte? Fire,' as report the Sun.

'Then when we get to June, who will be free?
'The ones are Ancelotti, Conte, Allegri, Ranieri and Mancini. This is the truth of those available,' he added.

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