Claudio Ranieri admits he would join the Italy squad, either as coach or a director. ‘I said no before because I had a job, but now I am free. When called by your country, you say yes.’

The former Roma director was at the Gianni Di Marzio Awards and spoke to Sky Sport Italia about what will come next in his extraordinary, lengthy career.

He has already retired twice, and was dismissed by the Giallorossi from his role as consultant due to clashes with coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

Some reports have suggested that Ranieri could be the man to get Italy back on their feet after missing three consecutive editions of the World Cup.

Ranieri had been offered Italy role before

“I said no to Italy before because I already had a job at Roma and could not do two jobs,” Ranieri told Sky Sport Italia.

“At this point in time, I am free, so if anyone was to call, why not? Never say never.”

Would he accept the call to be coach or just a director?

“I don’t know, when you are called by your country, you say yes and that’s that.”

Ranieri will be forever associated with Leicester City after winning the Premier League a decade ago, but 10 years on and the Foxes have been relegated to the third tier of English football.

“It was considered a yo-yo club in England, going up and down through the top two divisions,” noted Ranieri.

“It’s a pity they have dropped down to the third tier. I will soon be going to Leicester for the celebrations 10 years on from the Premier League title, and the fans care about recreating that atmosphere.”

It was revealed that Enzo Maresca had called Ranieri for advice before several of his jobs, including at Leicester City and Chelsea, so what should the Italian do next?

“Maresca is one of the most promising young coaches that we have and I hope he will remain in England.”