Having missed out on qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™, Italy have parted ways with coach Giampiero Ventura, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced on Wednesday.

The 69-year-old’s departure comes after Gli Azzurri were beaten 1-0 on aggregate by Sweden in their Russia 2018 qualification play-off, having drawn the home leg 0-0 in Milan on Monday.

It will be the first time in 60 years that the Italians will not be appearing at a World Cup, having last missed out on the global finals back in 1958.

Ventura succeeded Antonio Conte in the role following the conclusion of Italy’s UEFA EURO 2016 campaign. During his tenure, the four-time world champions finished second behind Group G winners Spain in qualifying, which led to this month's two-leg play-off against the Swedes.

Italy’s elimination resulted in goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon retiring from international football after 20 years.

The news of Ventura’s departure follows Marc Wilmots leaving his role as Côte d'Ivoire coach on Tuesday. The former Belgium coach brought his brief tenure in charge in the Elephants to an end after the West African nation also missed out on qualification for Russia 2018.