Gennaro Gattuso steps down as Italy head coach | OneFootball

Gennaro Gattuso has stepped down as head coach of Italy, in a mutual agreement with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).

The decision comes in the wake of Italy’s failed World Cup 2026 qualifying playoff, meaning the Squadra Azzurra will miss a third successive World Cup.

“The Italian Football Federation and Gennaro Ivan Gattuso have mutually agreed to terminate the contract linking the coach to the national team,” the FIGC said in an official statement. “We thank Gattuso and his entire technical staff for the professionalism, dedication and passion with which they served over the past nine months, and we wish them every success in their future careers.”

Gattuso also commented on his departure: “It is with a heavy heart that I step down, as we were unable to achieve the goal we set ourselves. I feel my time as national coach has come to an end. The Azzurra shirt is the most precious symbol in football, and it is only right to make it easier for the next technical team to carry out their work from the start.

“It was an honour to lead the team and to work with players who showed commitment and pride in the shirt. My deepest thanks go to all the Italians who never stopped supporting the team over these months. The Azzurra will always remain in my heart,” he added.

The fallout has sparked a wider shake-up at the FIGC, with then-president Gabriele Gravina resigning, followed by legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.