Gennaro Gattuso has been appointed as the new head coach of the Italian national team, following the departure of Luciano Spalletti. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) made the announcement on Sunday, entrusting the former AC Milan midfielder with the task of revitalizing the Azzurri's hopes for the 2026 World Cup qualification.

Spalletti's exit came after a disappointing run, including a 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening World Cup qualifier. He took charge of the Azzurri in August 2023, succeeding Roberto Mancini, but his tenure was cut short after a lackluster Euro 2024 campaign and the setback in World Cup qualifying. Despite a subsequent 2-0 victory against Moldova, Spalletti revealed he would be stepping down, stating that the federation had informed him of their decision to relieve him of his duties due to negative results. He acknowledged that Italy might fail to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row.

Gattuso, a celebrated figure in Italian football, brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach. As a player, he was a tenacious midfielder, renowned for his combative style and unwavering commitment. He lifted the World Cup with Italy in 2006 and won two Serie A titles and two Champions League trophies with AC Milan, making 468 appearances for the Rossoneri. His only goal in 73 appearances for Italy was against England in November 2000.

FIGC President Gabriele Gravina expressed his confidence in Gattuso, hailing him as "a symbol of Italian soccer" and emphasizing that "the blue shirt is like a second skin for him." Gravina believes that Gattuso's "motivation, his professionalism and his experience will be fundamental to best face the national team's next matches."

Gattuso's coaching career has included stints at AC Milan, Napoli, Valencia, Marseille and most recently, Hajduk Split. His only trophy as a coach was the Italian Cup with Napoli in 2010. Despite a mixed bag of results, his appointment signals a fresh start for the national team.

Italy's immediate challenge is to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They are currently nine points behind Norway in their qualifying group, although they have played two games fewer. Only the group winner automatically qualifies, while the runner-up enters a playoff bracket. Italy has missed the last two World Cups, failing to qualify for Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, and is aiming to avoid a third consecutive absence.

Gattuso's first match in charge is scheduled for September 5th at home against Estonia. He will be formally presented at a news conference in Rome on Thursday. Italian media suggests that Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci may join Gattuso's coaching staff. Before Gattuso's appointment, Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli were also considered for the position.