Gattuso Confident about Italy Players’ Quality | OneFootball

Gennaro Gattuso urged Italy to change their mindset, but seemed confident about the quality of his players.

The ex-midfielder has signed a one-year contract as the new Azzurri boss, replacing Luciano Spalletti.

Italy’s golden era is a distant memory. Even if La Nazionale won the Euros in 2021, they have failed to qualify for the last two editions of the World Cup.

Fans and media have been complaining about the team’s lack of quality, but Gattuso has a different perspective:

“We have important players; four or five in this group are among the top ten in the world in their roles,” the newly-appointed Italy coach said at his unveiling press conference earlier this week (via TMW).

What Gattuso said about Italy players’ quality

Marseillle’s Italian head coach Gennaro Gattuso looks on prior to the French L1 football match between Stade Brestois 29 (Brest) and Olympique de Marseille (OM) at the Francis-Le Ble stadium in Brest, western France, on February 18, 2024. (Photo by FRED TANNEAU / AFP) (Photo by FRED TANNEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

“I’ll repeat it. It’s about the team, not individuals. I’m convinced this squad has values and can achieve its goal. When Buffon and Gravina called me, I didn’t hesitate for a second. I believe we have what it takes to succeed.

“This year, Serie A has had 68% foreign players; this number should make us think. We need to give young players a chance. Missing two editions of the World Cup in a row isn’t easy to swallow. That’s why we must rediscover enthusiasm; fear leads nowhere.”

Italy sacked Luciano Spalletti after losing 3-0 in their opening World Cup qualifying match against Norway on June 6.

Italy path to 2026 World Cup

REGGIO NELL’EMILIA, ITALY – JUNE 9: Italian players line up during the FIFA 2026 Qualifier between Italy and Moldova at Mapei Stadium – Citta’ del Tricolore on June 09, 2025 in Reggio nell’Emilia, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Only the group winners qualify for the World Cup, while runners-up must go through the playoffs. Italy will host Norway in the final group stage game in November, but the Azzurri are now the underdogs in Group I, which also includes Israel, Moldova and Estonia. If you’re a football enthusiast who also likes placing wagers, then we suggest that you check out NoDepositRewards.org for some of the juiciest odds in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Italy has earned three points in the opening two matches as their calamitous loss to Norway was followed by a 2-0 win over Moldova.

Gattuso also spoke about his predecessor, Spalletti, during his unveiling press conference:

“I have enormous respect for him. He’s a true football mind and innovates every year,” said the new Azzurri coach.

“Currently, I need to determine the best course of action. He did an important job with the national team, but we don’t have time for big chances.”

Gattuso will make his Italy debut on September 5 in a home World Cup qualifying match against Estonia at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo.

“There’s work to be done. Meeting players, talking to them, getting into their heads. I’ve been hearing for years that there’s no talent, but I believe the players are there,” continued Gattuso.

“We need to put them in the right conditions to perform at their best. The goal is to go back to the World Cup. It’s fundamental for us and Italian football.”