The decision, first reported by Sky Sport Italia and other Italian media outlets, marks the end of Gattuso’s tenure after he took over from Luciano Spalletti in mid-2025. Formal steps and an official statement from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) are expected in the coming days.
Italy missed out on the 2026 World Cup after losing on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the UEFA playoff final on 31 March 2026. This is the third consecutive World Cup (2018, 2022, and now 2026) that the four-time champions have failed to reach — a historic low for one of football’s greatest nations.
Gattuso’s Short Tenure
Gattuso was brought in as a stabilising figure during a difficult qualification campaign but could not guide the Azzurri to the expanded tournament in North America. His exit comes amid a broader period of upheaval at the FIGC, with reports also suggesting changes at federation level and the departure of delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon.
Who Next for Italy?
The question now dominating Italian football discourse is: Who is the ideal candidate to succeed Gattuso?
Popular names being discussed include:
- Antonio Conte – Experienced, demanding, and a proven winner.
- Massimiliano Allegri – Tactical discipline and Serie A pedigree.
- Roberto Mancini – Former successful Italy coach (Euro 2020 winner).
- Luciano Spalletti – Could return for a second spell.
- Emerging options such as Vincenzo Montella or younger coaches with fresh ideas.
The FIGC faces pressure to appoint a high-calibre coach quickly to begin rebuilding the Azzurri for the next qualification cycle and restore national pride.
This marks another painful chapter for Italian football, but also an opportunity for a fresh start.
Italian fans — who would be your ideal choice as the next head coach of the Azzurri? Drop your suggestions below!