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Roberto Mancini left 'too disappointed' to talk about Italy future after crashing out of World Cup

Roberto Mancini was left 'too disappointed' to comment on his future after Italy loss

Just eight months after winning Euro 2020, Italy failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup after losing 1-0 to North Macedonia.

North Macedonia's Aleksander Trajkovski's bagged a last-gasp winner to dump Italy out of World Cup qualification.

It marks the second successive World Cup Italy have failed to reach after their play-off defeat four years ago to Sweden.

The Azzurri dominated the match in Palermo, but failed to take any of their chances despite taking 32 shots at goal.

Having just won the Euros last July, Italy's loss was by far the biggest shock in qualifying, and it's put Roberto Mancini's role as manager into doubt. 

The 57-year-old insisted his side suffered plenty of "bad luck" during the loss, and also labelled it the biggest disappointment of his career.

"In July, the Wembley victory was the best thing; this is the biggest disappointment of my career," said Mancini.

"We did everything we could to try to win. Some games are like that, difficult to talk about. Incredible things happen in football.
"The success in the European Championship was deserved, then the luck that accompanied us turned into total bad luck.
"I am very sorry for the group. On a human level, I can say that I love the kids more now than in July.
Mancini gave no signs that he was about to resign following the loss, but should he give up his role, World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro is reported to be the leading candidate to replace him.
However, when questioned about his future as Italy manager, Mancini simply stated he was "too disappointed" to comment on his future plans.
"This national team has good players and a great future. Now I feel too disappointed to speak about my future, we will see."
A sacking doesn't seem on the cards, however, after Italian Football Federation president Gabriele Gravina publicly backed Mancini.
"The great joy of last summer remains, but also the disappointment for this unexpected elimination.
"Mancini? I hope he continues, he has a commitment to a project and I hope he can quickly dispose of the waste."
North Macedonia will now face Portugal in the play-off final for a spot in the upcoming World Cup.

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