The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has officially confirmed the appointment of Gennaro Gattuso, a member of Italy`s 2006 World Cup-winning squad, as the new head coach of the national team. This significant change comes as the squad prepares for the forthcoming qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The decision to replace Luciano Spalletti followed Italy`s disappointing 3-0 defeat in their opening World Cup qualifier match and a subpar performance at the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament, where they were eliminated by Switzerland in the Round of 16. Gattuso`s official unveiling as the new head coach is scheduled to take place in Rome on June 19. The Italian team is expected to play their first matches under his guidance in September, facing Estonia and Israel. Gattuso`s coaching career includes previous stints at prominent clubs such as Napoli and AC Milan, in addition to managing Valencia, Marseille, and most recently, Hajduk Spalato.
`Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football,` stated FIGC President Gabriele Gravina.
Gravina further commented on the appointment, adding: `His motivation, professionalism, and experience will be crucial for tackling the upcoming challenges facing the national team. We are acutely aware of the importance of the goal we aim to achieve, and I extend my thanks to him for his availability and complete dedication in accepting this challenge…`
Gattuso takes the reins after the federation dismissed Luciano Spalletti last week, prior to Italy`s subsequent 2-0 victory against Moldova. Spalletti had only assumed the role of national team manager in August 2023, stepping in following Roberto Mancini`s decision to resign. His brief tenure included leading the team through the underwhelming Euro 2024 tournament.
Performances under Spalletti did not see significant improvement, with Italy losing three of their last four matches, including the notable 3-0 defeat to Norway in their inaugural 2026 World Cup qualifying fixture. Initially, the FIGC had reportedly approached former AS Roma manager Claudio Ranieri for the head coach position ahead of the World Cup campaign. However, Ranieri declined the offer, choosing instead to continue his role as an advisor to the Friedkin family, who own the Italian club. Following Ranieri`s refusal, the federation explored alternative candidates, with Gattuso emerging as the strongest contender alongside Stefano Pioli, who is currently managing Al-Nassr and is widely expected to be appointed as the new manager of Fiorentina.
Benedict Kingsley