Italy have appointed Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach — just days after outgoing boss Luciano Spalletti stunned a press conference by announcing that he had been sacked.
Gattuso, a World Cup-winning midfielder from Italy’s 2006 triumph in Germany, was officially confirmed in the role on Sunday by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), who hailed him as ‘a symbol of Italian football’.
The 47-year-old takes charge following a turbulent start to the Azzurri’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, which began with a dismal 3-0 defeat to Norway in Oslo last week.
That loss prompted a swift decision behind the scenes — one which Spalletti himself disclosed in a remarkable news conference the following day.
The former Napoli manager told reporters: ‘Last night we were very together with president [Gabriele] Gravina. He told me that I will be relieved of my position as coach of the national team.’
Despite being informed of his dismissal, Spalletti remained in charge for Italy’s 2-0 win over Moldova on Monday — his final match at the helm.
Italy have appointed 47-year-old former midfielder Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach
Gattuso replaces Luciano Spalletti, who was recently sacked by the Italian Football Federation
He left the job having overseen 12 wins, six draws and six defeats since taking over from Roberto Mancini in 2023.
Gattuso now inherits a team short on confidence and identity. But he brings with him a wealth of experience — both on the pitch and on the touchline.
As a player — known for his relentless energy, fierce tackling and emotional leadership — he earned 73 caps for Italy between 2000 and 2010.
He played in three World Cups and was a central figure in Marcello Lippi’s 2006 side that triumphed in Berlin against France.
Since moving into management, Gattuso has had an itinerant career, coaching nine clubs in 12 years — including spells at Milan, Napoli, Valencia, Marseille and, most recently, Croatian side Hajduk Split.
He left Hajduk by mutual consent earlier this month.
His most successful stint came at Napoli, where he won the Coppa Italia in 2020 and recorded a win percentage of 56.79 per cent.
Italy’s players pictured prior to their 2-0 win over Moldova in Reggio Emilia earlier this month
During his playing days, Gattuso was capped 73 times by Italy and he won the 2006 World Cup
Gattuso pictured (right) celebrating with his team-mates after Italy beat France on penalties in the 2006 FIFA World Cup final in Berlin after the game had ended 1-1 following extra time
In total, Gattuso has taken charge of 376 senior matches as a manager, winning 161, drawing 108 and losing 107, giving him an overall win rate of 42.82 per cent.
Italian Football Federation president Gravina said: ‘Gattuso is not only a World Cup winner — he’s a fighter, a leader, and a symbol of Italian football. We believe he can transmit the spirit and identity this team needs.’
Italy currently sit third in World Cup qualifying Group I, behind Norway and Israel. Moldova and Estonia are also in Group I.
Gattuso’s first match in charge will be at home to Estonia on September 5.
