Former AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has been appointed as the new manager of the Italian national football team, following the departure of Luciano Spalletti.
Gattuso, 47, steps into the role after Spalletti announced his own sacking during a press conference last week. The decision came in the wake of Italy’s 3-0 defeat to Norway on 6 June, which effectively ended their hopes of qualifying for the upcoming World Cup.
A veteran of 73 international caps, Gattuso was a key figure in Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning squad. Two decades later, he returns to the world’s biggest football stage—this time as manager.
Italy have endured a turbulent period since their Euro 2020 triumph, failing to qualify for last summer’s European Championship and missing out on the last two World Cups.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed that Gattuso will be officially presented to the media on Thursday.
“Gennaro Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football,” said FIGC President Gabriele Gravina. “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.”
Gattuso’s appointment marks a new chapter for the Azzurri, who will be hoping his trademark passion and grit can inspire a return to football’s elite.
