Gattuso: Italy Job – Pros, Cons & Decision Factors

KOMPAS.com – The Italian national team coach, Gennaro Gattuso, explained the reasons behind his decision to accept the proposal from the Italian national team even though they were threatened with not qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

In his interview with Vivo Azzurro published by Italian media CT Gattuso, the former AC Milan player admitted that he was lucky to be able to coach the Italian national team.

Gattuso is said to have taken the offer without thinking twice even though he was hit by a number of reports of pros and cons.

Also read: Federico Barba Misses Italy, Opens Up to the Possibility of Leaving Persib

Gattuso replaced Luciano Spalletti in June 2026, but only made his debut as Italy head coach in September in a 5-0 win over Estonia.

Even though they still have the opportunity to go through the playoffs, the Italian national team is haunted by bad experiences in the last two editions which made them fail to appear in the World Cup.

Gli Azzurri will face Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-finals in March 2026 and will visit the winner between Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina if they qualify for the Final.

Under Gattuso’s command, the fate of the Italian national team at the 2026 World Cup will be determined next year.

Also read: Jay Idzes’ market price skyrockets, more expensive than the Malaysian national team squad

Feeling Honored to be Called Italy

Gennaro Gattuso admits that he does not regret making the decision to coach the Italian national team. He was honored to represent his country.

“I immediately accepted the offer, without thinking about the pros and cons. I accepted it, and I don’t regret it. I represented my country, and I feel honored,” said Gattuso.

“I had the opportunity to coach the Italian national team, and I think millions of people would want to be in my position.

Also read: Arsenal vs Crystal Palace: Arteta and Glasner never complain about busy schedules

Gattuso is aware that there is a big responsibility he must take behind the decision to train Gli Azzurri.

However, he did not give up and considered that his past experience could help produce the best results for his country.

“I have a big responsibility, but I also felt it when I was 12 and went to Perugia. I was in a room, thinking that I couldn’t go home, or I would fail.”

“I have faced pressure all my life. I hope to give my best with my students and give great joy to the whole state,” he explained.

Also read: This is the prize that Napoli brought home after winning the Italian Super Cup title

Inspired by Marcello Lippi

Gattuso was part of the success of the Italian national team when they won the 2006 world title under the tutelage of Marcello Lippi.