Gennaro Gattuso near appointment as new Italy head coach

Former Italy and Milan midfielder, Gennaro Gattuso has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Luciano Spalletti as the head coach of the Italy national football team.

According to Sky Sport Italia, transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio reports that the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is now primarily focusing on Gattuso for the role. The 2006 World Cup winner has gained favor amid ongoing coaching changes and is seen as a strong choice to lead the Azzurri forward.

Gattuso’s name had been circulating in earlier reports, which also mentioned Roberto Mancini, Daniele De Rossi, and Fabio Cannavaro as potential contenders for the position.

However, recent developments suggest that the FIGC is narrowing its options to Gattuso, given his recent coaching experience and his status as a World Cup champion. His familiarity with Italian football and leadership qualities have made him a prominent figure in discussions about the national team’s future.

The coaching situation became more urgent following Spalletti’s final game in charge, a 2-0 victory over Moldova. This match marked the end of Spalletti’s tenure, and the FIGC is now actively seeking a suitable replacement.

Claudio Ranieri, a former Roma coach and current advisor to the club’s owners, was initially considered the primary candidate but rejected the FIGC’s offer on Tuesday, citing his commitment to his current role.

Meanwhile, Stefano Pioli, the ex-Milan coach, was also linked to the job. However, sources from Football Italia indicate that Pioli has already reached a verbal agreement to become the new head coach of Fiorentina, ruling him out of the running for the Italy job.

The federation’s focus appears to be shifting toward Gattuso, who has the experience and the national team pedigree needed for the role.Gattuso was seen in Marseille during a French Ligue 1 match, underscoring his ongoing active coaching career.

His potential appointment as Italy’s head coach could bring a familiar face back to the national team, with many hoping his leadership will inspire a new era for Italian football. The FIGC is expected to make a decision soon as they look to stabilize the team ahead of upcoming international fixtures.