'Gattuso shouldn’t be a coach' - Ex-Inter chief blasts Italy after World Cup exit

Former Inter Milan chief executive Ernesto Paolillo has launched a scathing critique of Gennaro Gattuso, calling for his dismissal following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Azzurri’s hopes were shattered after a painful penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their European qualifying play-off final, extending their absence from the global tournament.

Speaking to TMW, Paolillo did not hold back in his assessment of the Italian Football Federation’s decisions.

“Gattuso shouldn’t even have been appointed as the national team manager. He’s never produced significant results as a coach so far. He’s not a coach who can dictate a style of play to the team,” he said.

Paolillo criticised the lack of cohesion in Italy’s performances, suggesting that the team lacks a clear tactical identity under the former AC Milan midfielder.

“Ultimately, the players end up going onto the pitch in a somewhat cohesive fashion. You need a manager who knows how to make the players he selects coexist," he added.

The former Inter chief also questioned the decision to part ways with experienced coaches like Luciano Spalletti, arguing that stability and long-term planning are crucial for national team success.

He said, “A good coach like Spalletti or other good coaches we've had should have been retained to make long-term plans, not make such hasty decisions.

“We have good coaches. I think the best coach for the national team is Gian Piero Gasperini."