Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has admitted he would “go and reside far-off” if the Azzurri fail to qualify for the 2026 World Cup – a 3rd consecutive absence from soccer’s greatest stage.
The 47-year-old took cost of the nationwide workforce in June and has overseen a dramatic turnaround of their qualification marketing campaign.
Beneath his management, Italy have received 4 matches in a row, the newest being a convincing 3-0 victory over Israel that confirmed their place within the UEFA play-off spherical for the upcoming match in america, Mexico, and Canada.
“I’ll take credit score if I handle to attain the objective, in any other case I’ll go and reside far-off from Italy,” Gattuso mentioned.
“I’m already a bit far-off [with his residence in Marbella, Spain], I’ll go even farther. The consequence is that, I’m conscious of it.”
Italy haven’t appeared at a World Cup since 2014 – a staggering absence for a nation that has lifted the trophy 4 occasions.
Now, sitting three factors behind Group I leaders Norway, Gattuso’s aspect face a decisive double-header subsequent month. They’re away to Moldova on November 13, earlier than internet hosting Norway three days later of their closing group match.
Regardless of the large stress surrounding the function, Gattuso mentioned he stays grateful for the chance to handle his nation.
“I’ve mentioned it earlier than, it’s a dream to be right here and it’s true,” he mentioned.
“There have been folks with extra expertise than me, with extra expertise, and that’s why I took this name with nice duty.
“I’ve to thank the Federation, it’s president [Gabriele Gravina], and [head of Italy’s delegation Gianluigi] Buffon. I didn’t suppose I’d lead the workforce to 16 targets, however the credit score goes to the gamers. I’ve little credit score.
“We have to proceed on this path. Sure, we work so onerous and we sleep so little, however we do that, too, as a result of when the victories come, it feels superb.”
