Gennaro Gattuso, the former AC Milan and Italy midfield dynamo, has been officially named the new manager of the Italian national football team, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed on Monday. The 47-year-old replaces Luciano Spalletti, who resigned last week following Italy’s 3-0 loss to Norway in a 2026 World Cup qualifier on June 6.
Gattuso now faces the immense challenge of steering the Azzurri through the remaining matches of their World Cup qualifying campaign. Italy, despite winning the UEFA Euro 2020, has endured disappointment on the world stage, failing to qualify for the last two FIFA World Cups.
“Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football,” FIGC President Gabriele Gravina stated. “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.”
A fiery and tireless midfielder, Gattuso was a vital part of the Italy squad that triumphed at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. Over his international career, he earned 73 caps and earned a reputation for relentless effort and leadership on the pitch.
Since hanging up his boots in 2013, Gattuso has had a diverse and eventful managerial career, with ten different appointments in just over a decade. His resume includes high-profile roles at AC Milan, Napoli—where he won the Coppa Italia—and Valencia in Spain. His longest stint came with Pisa, where he led the club from Italy’s third tier into Serie B over two successful seasons.
Now entrusted with restoring the pride of a struggling national side, Gattuso brings not only tactical acumen but the same passionate intensity that defined his playing days. Known for his no-nonsense approach and deep emotional connection to the game, the former midfielder’s return to the national stage is being widely seen as a rallying call for a new era.
Gattuso will be officially presented at a press conference this Thursday in Rome, where he is expected to outline his vision for the team and address concerns surrounding Italy’s recent performances. The next test for the Azzurri under his leadership will be a crucial World Cup qualifier next month, with fans hoping for a revival under one of their most iconic former players.
Source: Footy Times
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
