Italy have appointed Gennaro Gattuso as the new head coach of the national football team, following the departure of Luciano Spalletti after a shock 3-0 defeat to Norway in World Cup qualifying.
Gattuso, 47, brings his trademark intensity and experience to a side desperate to restore its place among football’s elite after missing the last two World Cups.
A former midfielder with 73 caps for Italy, Gattuso was a key member of the country’s 2006 World Cup-winning squad.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed the appointment on Tuesday, with FIGC President Gabriele Gravina hailing Gattuso 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,” Gravina said.
Gattuso will be officially presented to the media on Thursday and begins his tenure with Italy still reeling from recent failures, including missing Euro 2024 and the 2022 World Cup.
Known for his fiery personality and combative style during a glittering playing career at AC Milan, Gattuso won two Serie A titles and two Champions League trophies before retiring in 2013.
His managerial career has been more turbulent. Italy will be his 10th team in 12 years, with brief stints at clubs including Pisa, Napoli, and Valencia. Despite the instability, Gattuso is praised for his passion and leadership.
