Rome, June 15, 2025 — In a major shake-up just a year before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, former AC Milan midfielder and World Cup winner Gennaro Gattuso has officially been named the new head coach of Italy’s national football team, replacing Luciano Spalletti.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) made the announcement earlier today following Italy’s disappointing 3–0 defeat to Norway in a recent World Cup qualifying match — a loss that ultimately led to Spalletti’s dismissal.
Gattuso, 47, brings a wealth of experience as both a player and a coach. A fiery and passionate midfielder during his playing days, Gattuso earned 73 international caps and played a key role in Italy’s victorious 2006 World Cup campaign. As a coach, he has managed clubs such as Napoli, AC Milan, Marseille, and Hajduk Split, notably winning the Coppa Italia with Napoli in 2020.
In his first statement, Gattuso said, “Wearing the Azzurri shirt, whether as a player or a coach, is a responsibility and an honour. I’ll give everything to bring pride back to Italy.”
Gattuso has signed a one-year contract, with the immediate goal of stabilizing the team and ensuring qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Former Italian defenders Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci are also expected to join his coaching staff.
His official presentation is scheduled later this week in Rome.
The appointment marks a new chapter for the Azzurri as they look to bounce back from years of inconsistency and reclaim their place among football’s elite.