Donadoni's future to be discussed soon

By Mark Meadows

VIENNA (Reuters) - Roberto Donadoni's position as Italy coach will be discussed in the coming days after the world champions were eliminated in the Euro 2008 quarter-finals on Sunday, Italian soccer federation chief Giancarlo Abete said.

Italy stuttered throughout the tournament and lost 4-2 on penalties to Spain after a 0-0 draw.

Donadoni, who took over from Marcello Lippi after the 2006 World Cup triumph, signed a two-year contract extension just before the tournament but an escape clause allows the coach or the federation to terminate the deal now.

"After the game, not right after the game, we will assess the Euro campaign and decide what will happen," Abete told a news conference.

"Although we have lost we have held the name of Italian football high. I can say that in the next few days we are going to meet and talk about it.

"We are aware that our overall capacity and skills have certainly not reached the level expected."

Donadoni showed no signs of wanting to quit and said he was happy with his players.

"You know the structure of my contract. I'm relaxed about it. What the federation decides is fine by me. I can't give you answers on things I can't control," he said.