Four-time FIFA World Cup winners Italy have announced the appointment of Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach of the senior men's team, following the sacking of Luciano Spalletti.
The AC Milan legend is a renowned figure in football, as the former aggressive midfielder won two UEFA Champions League titles (2003, 2007) and FIFA World Cup 2006 during his playing time.
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"Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio is pleased to announce that Gennaro Gattuso will be the new First Team Head Coach. The Calabrian coach will be presented officially on Thursday 19 June, at 11:00 CESt, at Hotel Parco dei Principi in Rome," read the official statement of Italy's football federation.
Italy are suffering arguably their worst slump in form ever, as the Azzurri have failed to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups. A Euro 2020 triumph reingnited their signs of comeback on the grand stage, only for them to suffer agonising defeats to fail to qualify for the 2024 edition.
Their 2026 qualifying campaign has suffered early jitters, as the side were stunned 3-0 by Norway.
Gattuso will have a huge task at his disposal of reconstructing Italy's path of glory days, as 2026 FIFA World Cup is now less than 365 days way.
Official Word Of FIGC President On Gattuso Appointment
Gabriele Gravina, FIGC President:
"Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football, the shirt is like his second skin. His motivations, professionalism and experience will be fundamental in taking on the next challenges of the National Team. He knows the importance of our objectives and I thank him for his readiness and dedication in accepting this challenges. He shares the FIGC's project of the development of our football, in which the Azzurri shirt is a central part."