Italy team manager Gigi Riva is leaving the national team setup.

Riva has been connected with the Azzurri for over 50 years.

"I am leaving quietly, even if Giancarlo Abete wants me to stay on," announced Riva, who turns 71 later this year.

"Today I confirmed my decision to FIGC President Abete and director general Antonello Valentini.

"It was enormously pleasing that they were ready to wait for me, as Abete wanted me at the World Cup in Brazil next year.

"However, the pain in my hip and my shoulder, added to the strain of travelling, do not allow me to perform my tasks. I'm not physically up to it anymore."