The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has appointed Gennaro Gattuso as the new head coach of the Italian national team.

The announcement comes just a week after Luciano Spalletti’s unexpected departure, following Italy’s dismal 3-0 defeat to Norway in a 2026 World Cup qualifier on June 6.

Gattuso, 47, is a name synonymous with grit, passion, and relentless determination. These are traits that defined his illustrious playing career.

A combative midfielder who made 73 appearances for the Azzurri, Gattuso was part of Italy’s legendary 2006 World Cup-winning squad. Now, two decades later, he returns to lead his country in the same tournament, this time from the dugout.

Described by FIGC President Gabriele Gravinaof as Gattuso’s appointment has generated a wave cautious optimism after being described by FIGC president as “a symbol of Italian football.”

“The blue jersey is like a second skin for him. His motivations, his professionalism and his experience will be fundamental to best face the upcoming commitments of the national team”.
FIGC President Gabriele Gravina

Gattuso’s fierce loyalty and passion for the national team are undisputed, and his appointment aims to reinvigorate an Italian side that has struggled in recent years to rediscover its past glory.

While Italy lifted the Euro 2020 title under Roberto Mancini, the team has failed to qualify for the last two World Cups.

The 3-0 loss to Norway proved to be the final nail in Spalletti’s coffin. Having already faced scrutiny for inconsistent performances and tactical indecision, the defeat sealed his fate in front of a stunned nation.

Records as a Manager

While Gattuso’s credentials as a player are unquestionable, his managerial career has been far more turbulent. Since retiring from professional football in 2013, Gattuso has managed nine different teams, making Italy his tenth managerial role in just 12 years.

His longest stint came with then-third-tier side Pisa, where he enjoyed his most notable managerial success. Appointed in August 2015, Gattuso guided Pisa to promotion to Serie B in his debut season. However, the following campaign ended in relegation, prompting his resignation in May 2017.

Before that, he briefly managed Greek side OFI Crete but resigned mid-season, citing financial instability at the club. Other stops include short spells at Sion, Palermo, AC Milan, and Napoli, with varying degrees of success and turbulence.

At Milan, Gattuso led the Rossoneri to a fifth-place finish in Serie A in 2018–19, narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification. Despite that achievement, he left by mutual consent, frustrated by the club’s direction.

His tenure at Napoli saw him lift the Coppa Italia in 2020 but also endure a mixed league campaign that ended without European football, leading to his exit.

Perhaps the most bizarre episode came in 2021 when he agreed to take over Fiorentina, only for the deal to collapse before it even began due to disagreements over transfer policy.

Gattuso’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for the Italian national team. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon and qualification hanging in the balance, the new manager has limited time to steady the ship and unify a fractured squad.

The Azzurri must quickly bounce back from their recent setbacks to avoid missing a third consecutive World Cup, a disastrous outcome for a footballing powerhouse.

While concerns persist over Gattuso’s erratic managerial record, his fiery commitment and love for the national team could inject a much-needed sense of urgency and pride.

Known for demanding intensity and discipline from his players, Gattuso is expected to instil the same warrior-like spirit that made him a fan favourite during his playing days.

Official Presentation and First Tasks

The FIGC has confirmed that Gattuso will be officially unveiled to the media on Thursday, where he is expected to outline his vision and tactical approach for the Azzurri.

His first competitive fixture is scheduled for early September, when Italy resumes its World Cup qualifying campaign.

Gattuso will face immediate pressure to deliver results, but he also inherits a squad rich with talent and potential. With stars like Federico Chiesa, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Nicolò Barella in the ranks, the ingredients for success are present; the challenge lies in mixing them effectively.