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

The Italian federation said in a statement that Gennaro Gattuso has resigned as Italy manager after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, following the departures of president Gabriele Gravina and head of delegation Gianluigi Buffon.

Gattuso took charge in June 2025 with the brief of reaching 2026, and his deal, due to run until 30 June, has been ended by mutual consent.

The decision comes after the recent defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final, which left Italy missing a third consecutive finals. He leaves with six wins and two defeats from eight matches.

In his message, he said he was stepping aside with a heavy heart after missing the target and that the national shirt is the most precious thing in football. He added that moving now would aid future technical assessments. He thanked his players, supporters and the federation for constant backing.

Gravina, Gattuso’s chief backer, resigned on Thursday amid a media storm and strong criticism of his leadership. Soon after, Buffon stepped down as head of delegation.

Source: Superdeporte