Antonio Conte will step down as Italy coach after this year's European Championship, the Italian Football Federation announced on Tuesday (15th March).

It's the announcement that many in Italy and England had been expecting for quite some time.

Antonio Conte will leave his post as Italy coach after this year's Euro 2016 in France.

The Italian Football Federation president, Carlo Tavecchio, revealed that the former Juventus coach missed the day-to-day life of club football.

The 46-year-old took over from Cesare Prandelli following the 2014 World Cup and secured qualification to the European Championships.

Previously Conte steered Juventus to Serie A titles.

The move now leaves him free to become the next manager of Chelsea, a job with which he has been strongly linked.

Media reports in both Italy and England have highlighted that terms have already been agreed between the Blues and Conte.

Now, with both parties free to conclude the move, an announcement could be made as soon as this week.

As for the man who will succeed Conte as Italy coach, Tavecchio highlighted that it will be discussed in due course.

Reports have identified Roberto Donadoni and Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri as possible candidates for the job.