Italy boss Gattuso admits he will flee the country as his team failed to secure World Cup qualification
Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has admitted he would “go live far away” if the Azzurri fail to qualify for the 2026 World Cup – a third consecutive absence from football's biggest stage.
The 47-year-old took charge of the national team in June and has overseen a dramatic turnaround in their qualifying campaign.
Under his leadership, Italy won four consecutive matches, the latest being a convincing 3-0 victory over Israel, confirming their place in the UEFA play-offs for the upcoming tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
“I will take credit if I manage to reach the goal, otherwise I will go and live far from Italy,” Gattuso said.
“I'm already a little far away [with his residence in Marbella, Spain]I will go even further. The consequence is that I am aware of it.
Italy have not appeared at a World Cup since 2014 – a staggering absence for a nation that has lifted the trophy four times.
Now three points behind Group I leaders Norway, Gattuso's side face a decisive double-header next month. They travel to Moldova on November 13, before hosting Norway three days later in their final group match.
Despite the enormous pressure surrounding the role, Gattuso said he remained grateful for the opportunity to lead his country.
“I’ve said it before, it’s a dream to be here and it’s true,” he said.
“There were people with more experience than me, with more experience, and that is why I took this call with great responsibility.
“I have to thank the Federation, it’s the president [Gabriele Gravina]And [head of Italy’s delegation Gianluigi] Buffon. I didn't think I would lead the team to 16 goals, but the credit goes to the players. I have poor credit.
“We have to continue on this path. Yes, we work very hard and we sleep so little, but we also do it, because when the victories come, it feels good.”
2025-10-16 16:02:00
