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Italy’s manager Gennaro Gattuso alongside captain Gianluigi Donnarumma participated in the opening of a new football museum at Coverciano. Gattuso intended to donate the boots he wore in the 2006 World Cup victory over France but disclosed that his mother declined to part with them.
The museum holds significant artifacts from Italy’s rich soccer history, prompting Gattuso to share, “It’s emotional to be here because there are so many wonderful memories.”
However, these trophies starkly contrast with Italy’s recent failures, having won Euro 2020 while missing out on two consecutive World Cups. Donnarumma expressed mixed feelings, experiencing both pride and a sense of heavy responsibility as he vows not to let the four-time champions miss another tournament.
From European Champions to Turmoil
Italy’s absence from the World Cup, a significant matter since they last missed out in 1958, became a reality after their play-off loss to Sweden in November 2017, a result that was anticipated given the team’s struggles under former coach Gian Piero Ventura. The shocking failure to qualify for Qatar 2022 left the nation stunned while Roberto Mancini’s side, despite being reigning European champions, faltered with a home defeat to North Macedonia.
With Mancini’s resignation in August 2023 during Euro 2024 qualification, Luciano Spalletti was appointed as coach, aiming to restore Italy’s success. However, their performances left much to be desired, highlighted by a lackluster start to Euro 2024 qualifying, requiring a last-minute equalizer against Croatia.
The Unexpected Appointment of Gattuso
Entering a troubled phase, Italian Football Federation president Gabriele Gravina made the surprising choice to bring back Gattuso, known for his fiery nature, as coach. Gravina emphasized his unwavering belief in Gattuso’s ability to lead the national squad, citing his commitment and spirit of sacrifice.
The initial impact of Gattuso’s leadership has been palpable, leading to a decisive 5-0 win against Estonia. Players like Alessandro Bastoni felt Gattuso’s determination invigorating, stating, “He gives us a lot of grit and a fair few slaps too, which we needed for a wake-up call.”
Nevertheless, Italy’s defensive weaknesses were exposed in a high-scoring game against Israel. Gattuso acknowledged the need for improvement, insisting that they must embrace the challenges ahead.
Facing the Prospect of Play-offs
As Italy faces a rough road ahead, the likelihood of entering the play-offs seems high. Despite trailing Norway by six points, Italy must concentrate on securing at least a play-off spot, with significant matches against Estonia and Israel on the horizon. Gattuso has acknowledged the emotional and political climate affecting fan attendance for the matches, emphasizing the need to focus on results.
Donnarumma voiced the team’s aspiration, saying, “We must give our all to write new pages in the history books, and we hope to write many of them along with our new coach.”
In light of recent struggles, Italy’s qualification for the World Cup may hinge on a renewed sense of unity and effort from both players and staff.
