The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has officially named Gennaro Gattuso as the new head coach of the national team. The appointment comes at a critical juncture, ahead of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Gattuso, a celebrated midfielder from Italy`s 2006 World Cup-winning squad, steps into the role vacated by Luciano Spalletti. Spalletti`s tenure was cut short following a challenging period that included a 3-0 defeat in the opening match of the World Cup qualifiers and a disappointing performance at UEFA Euro 2024, where Italy were eliminated in the Round of 16 by Switzerland.
The formal presentation of Gattuso as the new manager is scheduled to take place in Rome on June 19th. His first matches in charge are set for September, with Italy scheduled to play against Estonia and Israel.
Gattuso brings a varied coaching career to the national team job, having previously managed clubs such as Napoli, AC Milan, Valencia, Marseille, and most recently, Hajduk Split.
`Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football,` commented FIGC President Gabriele Gravina on the appointment. `His motivation, professionalism, and experience will be crucial for tackling the upcoming challenges of the national team. Aware of the importance of the goal we aim to achieve, I thank him for his availability and total dedication in accepting this challenge…`
Luciano Spalletti had taken over the Azzurri just last August, replacing Roberto Mancini who resigned from the position. However, the team`s results did not see significant improvement under Spalletti`s leadership, losing three of their last four matches before his departure, including the opening 2026 World Cup qualifier against Norway which ended in a 3-0 loss.
Before reaching an agreement with Gattuso, the Italian FA reportedly approached former AS Roma coach Claudio Ranieri. However, Ranieri declined the offer, opting instead to continue in his advisory role to the Friedkin family, the owners of AS Roma. Following Ranieri`s refusal, the federation explored other options, with Gattuso emerging as the strongest candidate among others considered, including Stefano Pioli, who is currently with Al-Nassr and is rumored to be heading to Fiorentina.
