‘With a heavy heart’ - Gattuso steps down as Italy coach after shock World Cup exit

Gennaro Gattuso has officially stepped down as head coach of the Italy national football team following their failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.

The resignation, confirmed by the Italian Football Federation on Friday, comes just days after Italy’s painful playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties.

The loss marks a historic low for the Azzurri, who have now missed out on three consecutive World Cup tournaments.

In an official statement, the Italian Football Federation announced that both parties agreed to part ways.

“The Italian Football Federation and Gennaro Ivan Gattuso have mutually terminated the contract that bound the Calabrian coach to the bench of the Italian national football team,” the statement read.

The federation also expressed appreciation for Gattuso’s efforts during his nine-month tenure.

“The FIGC thanks Gattuso and his entire staff for the professionalism, dedication, and passion with which they have worked… and wishes them every success for the rest of their careers,” the statement added.

Reacting to his resignation, Gennaro Gattuso admitted disappointment over failing to achieve the team’s primary objective.

“With a heavy heart, having failed to achieve the goal we set ourselves, I consider my time as coach of the national team to be over,” he said.

Gattuso emphasised the importance of the national team’s legacy, stating that stepping aside would allow for a fresh direction.

“The Azzurri shirt is the most precious asset in football, which is why it's right to facilitate future technical evaluations right from the start,” he said.