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Gattuso resigns as Italy coach after World Cup play-off defeat

Gennaro Gattuso quit as Italy coach after a penalty shoot-out loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina ended World Cup qualification, triggering resignations and urgent leadership changes at the Italian Football Federation.

Apr 3rd 2026 · Italy

Insights

  • Gennaro Gattuso resigned by mutual consent after Italy lost on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup qualification play-off.
  • FIGC president Gabriele Gravina also stepped down and general manager Gianluigi Buffon left the federation.
  • Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after a 1-1 draw and penalty shoot-out loss in Zenica.
  • An interim coach will lead Italy in a friendly against Greece on June 7 while the federation organizes a new leadership vote.
  • The FIGC will vote on a new president on June 22, delaying any permanent coaching appointment.
  • Italian football faces broader problems, including no Champions League winners since 2010 and UEFA warnings about stadium readiness for Euro 2032.