Gennaro Gattuso has been officially named as the new head coach of the Italian national team, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed on Sunday. The 47-year-old former World Cup winner steps in to replace Luciano Spalletti, who was dismissed following Italy's 3–0 defeat to Norway in their opening 2026 World Cup qualifying match.

Gattuso, a key figure in Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning squad and a veteran with 73 international caps, has been tasked with guiding the Azzurri back to the global stage after back-to-back failures to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

“Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football,” said FIGC President Gabriele Gravina. “The blue shirt is like a second skin for him. His motivation, professionalism, and experience will be essential. He is fully aware of the significance of the task ahead, and we thank him for the total dedication with which he has accepted this challenge.”

The FIGC announced that Gattuso will be formally presented to the media on Thursday.

Italy’s qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup in North America has had a rocky start, with the heavy loss to Norway underscoring the urgency for change. Spalletti’s final game in charge was a 2–0 win over Moldova, which did little to preserve his position.

Gattuso brings a wealth of experience to the role, having managed clubs across Europe including AC Milan, Napoli, Valencia, Marseille, and most recently Croatian side Hajduk Split, whom he guided to UEFA Conference League qualification. Despite an inconsistent coaching record, his leadership qualities and passion for the Azzurri are expected to reinvigorate the team.

His coaching tenure will begin in September, with crucial Group 1 qualifiers against Estonia and Israel. According to Italian media, former defenders Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci are set to join his coaching staff, while former Italy boss Cesare Prandelli is expected to oversee the national youth teams.

The FIGC reportedly approached Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli for the role, but both declined, paving the way for Gattuso’s appointment.

Gattuso’s only major silverware as a manager came with Napoli, lifting the Coppa Italia in the 2019/20 season. As a player, he was known for his fierce competitiveness and tireless work ethic, qualities that Italian fans hope he will bring to the dugout as the Azzurri aim to reclaim their place among football’s elite.