Ciro Immobile appointed Italy Under-16s coach for first managerial role

The Italian Football Federation has appointed former striker Ciro Immobile as head coach of the Italy Under-16 team.

Immobile retired from playing at the start of the current season, and the position marks his first coaching role.

“Coaching these young players is a wonderful opportunity for me to return to football,” Immobile said after his appointment. “More importantly, it allows me to pass on everything I learned both on and off the pitch.”

He added: “I believe experience is extremely valuable, particularly when it is available to those taking their first steps in their international careers.”

Immobile also thanked Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malago for giving him the opportunity.

Italy Under-16s will play Spain twice, on the 15th and 17th of this month.