Gennaro Gattuso has officially been appointed the new head coach of Italy’s national team, taking over from Luciano Spalletti, who was dismissed after the Azzurri’s disappointing loss to Norway in the European qualifiers. Monday’s 2-0 win against Moldova marked Spalletti’s final outing in the dugout.
The change comes as Italy continues to grapple with a turbulent period in international football, having failed to qualify for the last two FIFA World Cups — missing out on Russia 2018 after a play-off defeat to Sweden, and then crashing out of the Qatar 2022 play-offs in shocking fashion against North Macedonia.
Gattuso, a 2006 World Cup winner with Italy, has experienced a rollercoaster managerial journey since his retirement in 2013.
While his standout achievement remains lifting the Coppa Italia with Napoli in the 2019/20 season, his tenures at clubs like Valencia and Marseille were notably short-lived — lasting only 22 and 24 matches, respectively.
A proposed move to Fiorentina in 2021 was also abruptly cancelled just weeks before commencement.
READ ALSO: Nigerian Goalkeeper Okoye Under Investigation for Alleged Betting Scandal in Italy
Reports in Italian media suggest that Gattuso will be flanked by former Italy defenders Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci, who are expected to join his technical team.
Meanwhile, former national team coach Cesare Prandelli is set to return to the FIGC setup to oversee the youth development program.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) reportedly approached Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli before settling on Gattuso, both of whom declined the role.
Gattuso’s first task will be to steady the ship and guide Italy toward qualification for the 2026 World Cup, as the country looks to restore its standing on the global stage.