Leicester City boss Claudio Ranieri has refused to rule out the possibility of becoming Italy coach despite his success with the club this season.
The Foxes have enjoyed a sensational year, building a five-point lead over their nearest rivals with nine games in the campaign remaining.
Whether or not they are able to finish as Premier League champions remains to be seen, but the club’s board will certainly be eager to secure Ranieri’s long-term future at the King Power Stadium.
“I have to experience every day in training with the lads, to understand them, share their anxieties and their problems, help them to become good players and good people,” Ranieri told Corriere dello Sport.
“I am more of a club Coach, not so much suited to the national team. I have a three-year commitment to Leicester and right now am concentrated on that. I must and indeed want to do a good job for this club.
“After that I don’t know, never say never.”
Having had a disastrous stint with Greece previously, the Italian tactician will likely be slightly apprehensive about stepping back into international management.
Nevertheless, his primary focus will be on helping Leicester end their season in strong fashion, as they continue to edge closer towards qualifying for the Champions League.
After a career in which he has fallen short of winning silverware, the former Inter, Juventus and Roma coach will arguably regret walking away from Leicester at this stage.
With players such as Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez to build around, Ranieri may well be advised to continue his work at the club, although the opportunity to coach his national team will naturally be a difficult one to turn down.
Antonio Conte is expected to take charge of Chelsea after the conclusion of Euro 2016, as reported by the Metro, with his contract with the FIGC expiring.
In turn, the Azzurri will need a new coach and Ranieri is set to head up their list of possible targets as he looks add a significant trophy to his cabinet in the coming months.