Italy’s national team is set to begin a new chapter with Gennaro Gattuso at the helm. Gianluigi Buffon, team manager of the Azzurri, confirmed that the appointment is in progress, with only a few formalities remaining. The coaching role became vacant after Luciano Spalletti was dismissed following a disappointing 3-0 loss to Norway. Although removed from his duties, Spalletti remained on the touchline for the subsequent 2-0 victory over the same opponent.
“We’re wrapping up the final details,” Buffon told RAI Sport. “The Federation and the President went through several intense days with different meetings. In the end, we believe we reached the best possible outcome.”
Search narrowed after Ranieri declined
The Italian Football Federation initially hoped to bring Claudio Ranieri back into a coaching role. However, his prior commitment to serve as a special advisor at Roma and his formal retirement from coaching ruled him out of contention. That prompted the FIGC to evaluate a number of alternative options.
Among the names discussed were former Milan and Inter boss Stefano Pioli, World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro, and Daniele De Rossi, who had impressed in his early managerial steps. Despite the variety of experienced and younger candidates, Gattuso quickly emerged as the leading choice.
Meetings and contract talks underway
Once Gattuso became the frontrunner, a series of meetings were held to solidify the direction of the appointment. He first met with Buffon, followed by a meeting with FIGC President Gabriele Gravina. These discussions laid the groundwork for the terms of his contract, which are now close to being finalized.
Buffon emphasized that the Federation is not just looking for results, but for stability and pride. “We are challenging ourselves to raise the standard,” he said. “But more importantly, we need to prevent the kind of performances that don’t reflect our values as a footballing nation.”
Focus turns to crucial september fixtures
Looking ahead, Italy will return to competitive action in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The team is set to face Estonia on September 5, followed by a match against Israel on September 8. These fixtures could mark Gattuso’s first matches in charge if the appointment is officially completed in time.
While Buffon stopped short of predicting immediate transformation, he expressed confidence that improvement is within reach. “There are many ways to suffer defeat, but with some small adjustments, we can avoid the most damaging kind,” he added.
