Italy Football Federation President Resigns After World Cup Failure

Italy's football federation is in chaos after failing to reach the World Cup for the third time. This is a major setback for the sport in the country.
By Newsroom | Sports, Football |

Gennaro Gattuso is out as Italy's coach following the national team's third consecutive World Cup failure. The resignation of FIGC President Gabriele Gravina and Delegation Chief Gianluigi Buffon accompanies Gattuso's departure, signaling a significant shake-up within Italian football leadership.

Milan warned about Italy’s interest in Allegri to replace Gattuso - 1

Allegri Emerges as Top Candidate for Azzurri Job

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri is reportedly the primary choice to succeed Gattuso. This potential move casts a shadow over Christian Pulisic, a key player under Allegri at Milan. Pulisic has experienced a notable resurgence in his Serie A career during Allegri's second tenure, and an abrupt departure of the coach could necessitate a complete tactical and developmental shift for the American star.

Milan warned about Italy’s interest in Allegri to replace Gattuso - 2

National Team in Crisis

Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup, culminating in a penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina, has plunged the national football system into disarray. The resignations of top federation officials underscore the gravity of the situation. Speculation about Gattuso's future has been rife, with suggestions he might oversee upcoming friendlies before a permanent successor is named.

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Milan warned about Italy’s interest in Allegri to replace Gattuso - 3

Contenders for the National Post

Beyond Allegri, other names are circulating in the Italian media as potential replacements for Gattuso. These include former Premier League bosses, with Roberto Mancini, Simone Inzaghi, and Antonio Conte frequently mentioned. The Italian press has also floated the idea of appointing Pep Guardiola, though he is described as an "almost impossible dream" for the federation.

AC Milan's Coaching Landscape

Allegri's current role at AC Milan places him squarely in the conversation for the national team job. His second stint with the Rossoneri has been highlighted as a period of transformation for players like Pulisic. The club, historically a powerhouse in Serie A with numerous domestic and international accolades, faces its own uncertainties should Allegri depart. Milan's storied past includes legendary figures and dominant eras under coaches like Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Italy's football federation president resign?
Gabriele Gravina resigned as President of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) after the national team failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row. This failure has caused a major crisis in Italian football leadership.
Q: Who else has resigned from the Italian football federation?
Along with President Gabriele Gravina, Delegation Chief Gianluigi Buffon has also resigned. These departures signal a significant leadership change within the FIGC following the team's poor performance.
Q: What is the current situation with the Italian national team coach?
Gennaro Gattuso is no longer the coach of the Italian national team after the World Cup failure. There is speculation that he might lead the team for upcoming friendly matches before a permanent replacement is found.
Q: Who are the possible new coaches for the Italian national team?
Massimiliano Allegri is seen as the main choice to become the new coach. Other names mentioned include Roberto Mancini, Simone Inzaghi, and Antonio Conte. Pep Guardiola is also mentioned as a 'dream' candidate, but it is considered very unlikely.
Q: How does the potential change of coach affect players like Christian Pulisic?
If Massimiliano Allegri, the current AC Milan coach, takes over the national team, it could change things for players like Christian Pulisic. Pulisic has been playing well under Allegri at Milan, and a coaching change might mean he has to adapt to new tactics or a different development path.