Italy's French coach Pierre Berbizier is hoping to bow out on a high note with a competitive display in the forthcoming tournament in his homeland.
Former France star Berbizier has told the Italian federation he wishes to return home for personal reasons after the finals, which get under way for the Azzurri against favourites New Zealand in Marseille on September 8.
The players are understandably disappointed by Berbizier's decision to quit, but Italy captain Marco Bortolami said: I respect his decision to return home. Now we want him to go out on a high at the World Cup.'
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article