There has been widespread support for Lippi to stay on after the success against France but he has decided to go out on a high.

He said in a statement on the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) website: "After the conclusion of an extraordinary professional and human experience during my time guiding this group of players, I believe my role as coach of the national team is over.

"I have therefore announced to the FIGC my wish to leave the post as national coach when the contract expires.

"I would like to thank the FIGC for the trust they have given me in the last two years I have worked for them."

He added: "I believe that I have achieved what I set out to achieve as coach of the Italian team."

Lippi turned down a new contract before the tournament in Germany began and failed to attend a meeting with the Italian Federation on Tuesday.

He feels he and his son Davide were attacked personally in the Serie A corruption scandal.

Lippi was questioned by prosecutors before the World Cup about alleged pressure he received to select particular players for the national team.

His son is under investigation for his position at a player agency linked to the scandal.

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