Gattuso Resigns as Italy Coach After World Cup Setback

Gennaro Gattuso has officially stepped down as the head coach of the Italian national football team, as confirmed by the Italian Football Federation on April 3, 2026. His departure follows a disappointing World Cup play-off campaign, where Italy finished second in their qualifying group behind Norway, necessitating a playoff for World Cup qualification.

Gattuso, who took charge of the team in June 2025, oversaw a record of six wins and two defeats across eight matches during his tenure. The decision to part ways was reached in a mutual agreement with the federation's president, Gabriel Gravina, who expressed gratitude towards Gattuso and his staff for their efforts over the past nine months.

The Italian team had reached the semi-finals of the playoffs, defeating Northern Ireland before ultimately falling short in their World Cup qualification bid.