Bonucci hints at ‘new, young’ Italy players for World Cup play-off | OneFootball

Leonardo Bonucci doesn’t rule out identifying ‘new and young players’ who can ‘fit’ the Italy national team as the Azzurri prepare for the World Cup play-off.

Italy will host Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal on March 26, 2026, and Bonucci, one of Gattuso’s assistants, made his assessment on the national team in an interview with Sky Sport Italia.

Bonucci ‘confident’ ahead of World Cup play-off

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Pio Esposito of Italy attempts to separate a confrontation between Gianluca Mancini of Italy and Erling Haaland of Norway during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“In the second half against Norway, we were not protagonists as we had been in the previous games, but I believe the path started with the coach is the right one,” said the ex-defender.

Bonucci was attending the Gran Galà Del Calcio, awarding the best Serie A players from the 2024-25 campaign.

“We have a great team, strong players. Many are here tonight, and others are putting in great performances outside Italy,” he continued.

“The team is there, and we all want to go to the World Cup. I’m confident that our journey will continue greatly after the setback against Norway.

Bonucci: Italy must be ‘positive and confident’

Leonardo Bonucci (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

“We are all focused; we won’t rule out finding new young players who can fit the national team. We follow every possible game live, with the staff and the great scouting made available by the federation,” Bonucci added.

“There’s great responsibility, and the coach is pumped up ahead of the play-offs. Everyone backs him.

“The lads always give their all when they are called upon. Perhaps the overall assessment is marred by the second-half performance against Norway, but we must remain positive and confident, knowing that we are a strong team,” concluded the ex-defender.

“We must put the players in the best condition to perform. Of course, the national team’s shirt weighs more now, but I’m also certain that these are great players who know how to take responsibility, which will be needed to bring Italy to the World Cup.”