FLORENCE, Italy — Gennaro Gattuso has been appointed as the head coach of the Italian national soccer team, following the recent departure of Luciano Spalletti. Gattuso, known for his spirited playing style as a former midfielder, is now entrusted with the task of rejuvenating Italy’s challenging journey towards the 2026 World Cup qualification.
The decision to hire Gattuso comes shortly after Spalletti’s dismissal, following a disappointing 3-0 loss to Norway in the opening qualifier, which jeopardized Italy’s chances of appearing in a third consecutive World Cup. Gattuso brings with him the prestige of being part of the World Cup-winning team in 2006.
Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian soccer federation, expressed confidence in Gattuso’s new role, remarking, “Gattuso is a symbol of Italian soccer. The blue jersey is like a second skin for him. His energy, dedication, and broad experience will be crucial in navigating the national team through upcoming matches.” Gratitude was also extended to Gattuso for accepting the challenge with such enthusiasm.
Before turning to Gattuso, the Italian soccer federation initially considered Claudio Ranieri as a replacement for Spalletti. However, Ranieri declined the offer, prompting the decision to approach Gattuso. His managerial experiences include stints at clubs like AC Milan, Napoli, Valencia, and most recently, Hajduk Split in Croatia, where his tenure ended earlier this month by mutual consent.
Gattuso’s playing career is also notable, having secured two league titles and two Champions League victories with AC Milan, amassing 468 appearances and scoring 11 goals. His memorable international career saw him scoring a vital goal against England in November 2000. As a coach, his honors include winning the Italian Cup with Napoli.
Currently, Italy trails behind Norway by nine points in their World Cup qualifying group, though they have played two fewer matches. After the loss to Norway, Italy did manage a 2-0 victory over Moldova, in what concluded Spalletti’s journey with the team.
Looking ahead, Gattuso will embark on his new role with Italy hosting Estonia on September 5. The team forms part of a five-team Group I, alongside Israel. Italy is scheduled to face Norway again in a crucial last match on November 16. Only the group winner earns a direct spot in the World Cup, with the second-place team entering playoffs next March, a phase that proved fateful for Italy in both the 2018 and 2022 qualifications.
Gattuso’s upcoming public introduction will be at a press conference in Rome on Thursday. This marks the beginning of a new chapter as Italy aspires to reclaim its glory on the World Cup stage.