Italy boss Gattuso admits he will flee the country his side does not secure World Cup qualification

• Last Update: October 16, 2025 05:02:23 pm BST • 2 min read

Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has admitted he would “go and 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 qualification campaign.

Under his leadership, Italy have won four matches in a row, the latest being a convincing 3-0 victory over Israel that confirmed their place in the UEFA play-off round for the upcoming tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

“I’ll take credit if I manage to achieve the goal, otherwise I’ll go and live far away from Italy,” Gattuso said.

“I’m already a bit far away [with his residence in Marbella, Spain], I’ll go even farther. The consequence is that, I’m aware of it.”

Italy haven’t appeared at a World Cup since 2014 – a staggering absence for a nation that has lifted the trophy four times.

Now, sitting three points behind Group I leaders Norway, Gattuso’s side face a decisive double-header next month. They are away 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 remains grateful for the opportunity to manage his country.

“I’ve said it before, it is a dream to be here and it’s true,” he said.

“There were people with more experience than me, with more experience, and that’s why I took this call with great responsibility.

“I have to thank the Federation, it’s president [Gabriele Gravina], and [head of Italy’s delegation Gianluigi] Buffon. I didn’t think I’d lead the team to 16 goals, but the credit goes to the players. I have little credit.

“We need to continue on this path. Yes, we work so hard and we sleep so little, but we do this, too, because when the victories come, it feels very good.”