OFFICIAL: Italy turn to Gattuso as new national team head coach

Gattuso, a legend of Italian football and long-serving AC Milan stalwart, has been tasked with leading Italy to qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The 46-year-old takes over at a delicate time for the national side, who are in danger of missing their third consecutive World Cup.

"The Italian Football Federation announces the appointment of Gennaro Gattuso as the new head coach of the national team. The Calabrian coach will be officially presented on Thursday, 19 June, at the Parco dei Principi Hotel in Rome," read the FIGC's official statement.

Gattuso steps into the role following the dismissal of Luciano Spalletti on 8 June, after Italy suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Norway – a result that leaves their hopes of automatic qualification hanging by a thread.

Although not the FIGC's first choice – with Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli both approached beforehand – Gattuso ultimately emerged as the strongest candidate once those options were ruled out.

Attention then turned to members of Italy's 2006 World Cup-winning squad, such as Daniele De Rossi and Andrea Pirlo, but it was Gattuso who was chosen to guide the Azzurri through a challenging period.

The former Palermo, Crete, Pisa, Milan, Napoli, Fiorentina, Valencia, Marseille and most recently Hajduk Split boss – with whom he parted company by mutual consent just a week ago – will make his debut in charge against Estonia on 5 September.

Italy must now win all six of their remaining qualifiers and score as many goals as possible in order to top the group and avoid a play-off. Otherwise, they will have to fight for second place and face the play-offs – a risky route that could lead to yet another World Cup absence.

"Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football. The Azzurri shirt is like a second skin for him. His motivation, professionalism and experience will be vital as we approach the challenges that lie ahead," said FIGC president Gabriele Gravina.