Gennaro Gattuso has resigned from his position as Italy’s national team manager, following a mutual agreement to conclude his tenure after their unsuccessful bid to qualify for the World Cup.
Italy’s aspirations to participate in this summer’s tournament were dashed by a penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina during the elimination rounds, solidifying their third successive absence from the event.
Gattuso, designated in June as Luciano Spalletti’s replacement, secured victories in six out of eight games under his leadership, yet ultimately failed to achieve the principal aim.
Following the setback, a visibly moved Gattuso announced his exit.
“With profound sadness, having not accomplished the objective we established for ourselves, I deem my tenure as national team coach to be finished,” he stated.
“The Azzurri jersey represents football’s most invaluable emblem, hence it is proper to allow for forthcoming tactical assessments immediately.”
“It has been a privilege to guide the national team, especially with a squad that has demonstrated such dedication and loyalty to the jersey.”
This decision contributes to a tumultuous time for the Italian football scene. Gabriele Gravina recently relinquished his leadership role at the Italian Football Federation, while Gianluigi Buffon also stepped down from his position within the national team’s structure.