The Italian national team is on the verge of entering a new era, with Gennaro Gattuso poised to become the new head coach. After weeks of speculation, the former Milan midfielder has pulled ahead of fellow 2006 World Cup winners Fabio Cannavaro and Daniele De Rossi in the race to succeed Luciano Spalletti.
Gattuso, who recently ended his stint with Hajduk Split, returned to Marbella earlier this week, but talks with the FIGC are said to be in an advanced stage. A final meeting is expected soon to iron out the remaining contractual details. The agreement would see Gattuso sign a one-year deal, with an automatic extension in the event of World Cup qualification. An official announcement could arrive early next week.
Alongside Gattuso, a familiar face is expected to join the new-look Azzurri setup: Leonardo Bonucci. The former Juventus and Milan defender, who recently began a coaching role with Italy’s Under-20 squad under Bernardo Corradi, is set to step up and join the senior national team staff. With Corradi now linked to Max Allegri’s incoming staff at Milan, Bonucci’s move to the senior setup appears to be a natural progression and is strongly supported by FIGC president Gabriele Gravina and Gianluigi Buffon.
Another key figure returning to the fold is Cesare Prandelli. The former Italy head coach is set to be appointed technical director, a position that has been vacant in the national team structure for far too long. Initially linked with the role earlier this year, Prandelli is now close to finalising his return after more than a decade away.
Prandelli’s new position will focus on youth development, scouting and long-term planning. His remit will include overseeing the Under-21 setup, managing technical and school development sectors, supporting federal training centres, and contributing to Club Italia’s strategic vision. He is expected to work closely with Maurizio Viscidi, the coordinator of Italy’s youth national teams, while maintaining regular contact with Gattuso and his staff.
The trio of Gattuso, Bonucci and Prandelli signals a clear shift by the FIGC toward reconnecting the national team with its identity and investing in both experience and future talent. As Italy looks to recover from a turbulent post-Euro 2020 period, this blend of passion, tactical knowledge and long-term planning could be just what the Azzurri need to reignite belief in the blue shirt.
