Gattuso named new Italy coach

ROME: Gennaro Gattuso was named Italy´s new coach on Sunday and will be tasked with helping the Azzurri qualify for the 2026 World Cup after replacing Luciano Spalletti.

The 47-year-old was part of the 2006 World Cup-winning side and won 73 caps for the national team as a player. The Italian football federation (FIGC) said Gattuso would be presented to the media on Thursday. “Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football,” said FIGC president Gabriele Gravina.

“The blue shirt is like a second skin for him. His motivation, his professionalism and his experience will be essential. “(He is) Aware of the importance of the objective we want to achieve. I thank him for the total dedication with which he has accepted this challenge.”