Italian federation president asks Gennaro Gattuso to stay | OneFootball

Following a 1-1 draw and 4-1 loss on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy will miss a third straight World Cup. Federation president Gabriele Gravina has urged Gennaro Gattuso to stay on as head coach.

L'Équipe reports that Gravina voiced his backing within minutes of elimination, then told a news conference he had asked both Gattuso and Gianluigi Buffon, Italy’s head of delegation, to continue in their roles.

He praised the manager’s qualities and the squad’s unity, speaking of a powerful sense of humanity in the dressing room. In his view the players were heroic and gave everything.

Gravina said several assessments are required. He would fully protect the technical side, while the political dimension falls to the Federal Council he has convened for next week. Any evaluations will be handled internally.

He added that he understands calls for resignations and is used to them, but under the rules decisions rest with the Federal Council.

Source: L'Équipe