Giampiero Ventura Named Next Italy Head Coach: Latest Comments and Reaction

Italy have replaced outgoing manager Antonio Conte with veteran Torino coach Giampiero Ventura, it was confirmed on Tuesday. 

The national team announced the news via social media:

Ventura will succeed Conte after Euro 2016, when the former Juventus manager will take over the vacant post at Chelsea.

Torino and Ventura made a mutual decision to part company at the end of the 2015-16 season after five years at the club, according to the Guardian. The role is the 21st of Ventura's managerial career, which spans back to 1976, when he took charge of Sampdoria's youth team.

The 68-year-old took Torino back up to Serie A after a spell in the lower division, and his experience has been rewarded with the most prestigious coaching job in his homeland. 

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Ventura previously managed Napoli, Pisa and Bari, but he has a tough act to follow in Conte, who is considered one of the best coaches in the world.

The appointment is a surprise one, with the Italian FA looking towards a wise old head to guide the team rather than a fresh young face.

Ventura's profile outside of Italy isn't considerable, and many football fans unfamiliar with Serie A will not know his acumen or depth of experience.