Gennaro Gattuso, the 2006 World Cup winner and former midfield stalwart of the Italian national team, has been officially appointed as Italy’s new head coach, marking a significant turning point for the Azzurri as they aim to reclaim their place on football’s biggest stage.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed Gattuso’s appointment on June 15, 2025, following the dismissal of Luciano Spalletti, who was relieved of his duties after Italy’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Norway in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. This loss severely jeopardized Italy’s chances of qualifying for the tournament in North America, intensifying the pressure on the new coach to turn around the team’s fortunes quickly.
Gattuso, 47, is a revered figure in Italian football, known for his fierce competitiveness, tactical intelligence, and deep connection to the national team. He earned 73 caps for Italy and was a key member of the squad that lifted the World Cup trophy in Germany in 2006. His appointment is seen as a symbolic return to the core values of Italian football, with FIGC President Gabriele Gravina describing him as “a symbol of Italian football” whose “motivation, professionalism and experience will be essential” to the team’s revival.
Before taking the helm of the national team, Gattuso amassed extensive coaching experience across Europe. He has managed a variety of clubs including AC Milan, Napoli, Valencia, Marseille, and most recently Hajduk Split in Croatia, where he led the team to a third-place finish and qualification for the UEFA Conference League. Despite some ups and downs in his managerial career, including a brief and turbulent stint at Fiorentina, Gattuso has demonstrated resilience and an ability to instill discipline and passion in his squads.
The challenge ahead for Gattuso is formidable. Italy, four-time World Cup champions, have missed the last two editions of the tournament, a historic low for a nation with such a rich footballing pedigree. To secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup, Italy must win all six remaining qualifiers and improve their goal difference to top their group, or else face the uncertainty of playoff matches. Gattuso’s first competitive match in charge is scheduled for September 5, 2025, against Estonia—a crucial fixture that will set the tone for Italy’s qualification campaign.
The decision to appoint Gattuso came after the FIGC considered other candidates, including Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli, both of whom declined or were unavailable for the role. Gianluigi Buffon, head of the national team delegation, praised the choice, calling it “the best possible” and expressing confidence in Gattuso’s ability to lead the team through this critical period.
Gattuso’s appointment is not only a strategic move but also a message of renewal and hope. His passion for the Italian jersey and his understanding of the national football culture are expected to resonate with players and fans alike. The federation and supporters are banking on his leadership to restore Italy’s competitive edge and to rebuild a squad capable of competing at the highest level once again.
In conclusion, Gennaro Gattuso’s rise to the position of Italy’s national team coach represents a pivotal moment for Italian football. Charged with the task of steering the Azzurri back to the World Cup after two consecutive absences, Gattuso brings a blend of World Cup-winning experience, managerial know-how, and an indomitable spirit. His tenure will begin with the crucial qualifiers later this year, and all eyes will be on him to reignite Italy’s footballing legacy on the global stage.