The Italian Rugby Federation decided to part with Kirwan on Friday, and president Giancarlo Dondi said: At present we are in talks with two great French coaches and in one week, we will be able to unveil the new manager.''

Kirwan, a legendary player with the All Blacks, took over from fellow New Zealander Brad Johnstone in 2002 and led the team to some big wins in the RBS 6 Nations and the World Cup.

''I have to say I'm sorry about John Kirwans departure, Dondi said, even if he has finished the working relationship with us.

He is a great man with tremendous rugby experience. He worked hard and took the team to a few prestigious victories, especially in the last World Cup and in the RBS 6 Nations.

But this year, the results went against him, finishing the Six Nations without a win.

Losing the game at Murrayfield was especially difficult because from my point of view, we lost it by giving points to the Scottish who hadnt deserved to win against us.

Italy did have the look of a team that could cause some damage in their opener against the Irish, falling 28-17 at the Stadio Flaminio.

A 38-8 home defeat to eventual champions Wales was followed by a narrow 18-10 loss against Scotland.

I was happy with the game against Ireland but after this game, the team lost its grip, its quality and the strength that is necessary to play its best, Dondi said.

The heavy defeat against Wales, England and France made us understand it was time for a change, a fresh start.

England thrashed the Azzurri 39-7 at Twickenham and Kirwans final game in charge was a 56-13 mauling at home by France.

Kirwan said during his spell in charge that he would eventually lead Italy to the RBS 6 Nations title, and he spoke confidently ahead of this years tournament.

He fuelled the hopes in the federation, which may have worked against him in the end.

Our coach made bold predictions, Dondi said, a bit too much, at the start of RBS 6 Nations and said Italy would win two games which didnt happen.