Italy’s football authorities have asked national team
coach Gennaro Gattuso to remain in charge following the country’s failure to
qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The appeal came moments after Italy’s painful playoff
exit, where they were beaten 4-1 on penalties by Bosnia and Herzegovina
national football team after a 1-1 draw in Zenica.
Historic Setback for the Azzurri
The result marks a historic low for Italy national
football team, as they become the first World Cup-winning nation to miss three
consecutive editions of the tournament.
The 2026 competition will be hosted by the United
States, Canada, and Mexico.
FIGC Backs Coaching Leadership
President of the Italian Football Federation, Gabriele
Gravina, confirmed he has asked Gattuso to continue in his role.
He also requested that Gianluigi Buffon remain in
charge of overseeing the national team structure, including both senior and
youth squads.
Buffon, however, indicated that he will decide on his
future at the end of the season.
Gattuso Reacts to Painful Exit
Gattuso expressed deep disappointment over the result,
describing the failure as heartbreaking. He stated that he would have
sacrificed greatly to secure qualification for the team.
The former midfielder, who was part of Italy’s 2006
World Cup-winning squad, took over as coach in June last year following the
dismissal of Luciano Spalletti.
Crisis Within Italian Football
Gravina acknowledged that Italian football is
currently facing a serious crisis and called for broader reflection across the
system, including from political stakeholders.
Despite mounting pressure, he confirmed he has no
intention of stepping down, although his position will be reviewed at an
upcoming board meeting.
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