GATTUSO resigns as Italy head coach after failure to reach 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Gennaro Gattuso has resigned as Italy head coach after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. It followed the departure of federation president Gabriele Gravina, with head of delegation Gianluigi Buffon also stepping down.

The federation announced the mutual termination of his deal, publishing Gattuso’s message that, having missed the target, his stint was over and that the Azzurra shirt is football’s most precious asset. The statement carried his thanks to players and supporters, and Gravina’s praise for the pride and enthusiasm rekindled around the team.

Italy were beaten by Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final, consigning them to a third successive absence from the tournament.

Gattuso was appointed in June 2025 with the brief of leading Italy to 2026. His contract had been due to run until 30 June.

He departs with six wins and two defeats from eight matches in charge.

Gravina, Gattuso’s main backer, resigned on Thursday amid a media storm and heavy criticism of his stewardship, while Buffon quit the delegation role shortly afterwards.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo