New Coach Gennaro Gattuso Pledges to Foster a ‘Family’ Environment for Underperforming Italy

Italy’s newly appointed coach, Gennaro Gattuso, committed on Thursday to revitalising the national team and fostering a sense of “family” among the players, with the ambition of securing a spot in the upcoming World Cup after the Azzurri faced two consecutive failures to qualify.

Gattuso takes over from Luciano Spalletti, who was dismissed earlier this month following a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Norway in a World Cup qualifier. Spalletti’s departure came after he managed the team in its last game, a 2-0 win over Moldova.

“It’s a dream come true, and I truly hope to meet the challenge. I understand the work ahead won’t be straightforward, but then again, nothing in life is simple,” remarked Gattuso, who ended his tenure at Croatian club Hajduk Split after guiding them to a third-place finish in the top division.

Known as ‘Ringhio’ (The Growler) for his gritty approach on the pitch, the 47-year-old has earned 73 caps for Italy and was a crucial member of the squad that won the World Cup in 2006.

Fans are optimistic that his robust personality can help the four-time world champions make it to next year’s World Cup, which is set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Currently sitting third in World Cup qualifying Group I, Italy will host Estonia on September 5 before clashing with Israel three days later.

“My aim is to ensure that everyone who arrives at the training facility does so with immense enthusiasm and to cultivate a family atmosphere,” Gattuso expressed, revealing that he has been offered a one-year contract, according to a source from the Italian football federation (FIGC).

Gattuso spent the majority of his playing career with AC Milan, where he clinched two Champions League trophies and two Serie A titles, before returning to coach the club from 2017 until 2019. As a manager, he lifted the Coppa Italia while in charge of Napoli in 2020.

“The foremost objective is to instil a sense of belonging” within the Azzurri team, Gattuso told journalists during his introductory presentation at a lavish hotel in central Rome.

The new coach acknowledged that players might be feeling the strain from missing out on two consecutive World Cups, which could be affecting the team’s performance.

“We need to be adept at responding; only those who truly react and give their all can emerge from this predicament,” he added.