2026 World Cup: Gattuso Speaks Out After Failing to Qualify
Gennaro Gattuso kicks off his tenure as Lazio’s head coach with enthusiasm and an awareness of the challenges that lie ahead. The former national team coach, who has signed a contract through 2028, addressed the Biancocelesti fans with a clear message: “I’m proud and I have a very positive feeling about this. I know we’ll have to roll up our sleeves, work hard, and give it our all, but I believe this team has a solid foundation to build upon.”
The new coach described the Lazio challenge as an exciting one, noting that he is already familiar with some of the players on the roster. “I evaluated every aspect before accepting. We need to address certain issues, but the priority is to create a family-like environment and a team that can excite the fans, making them feel proud of these colors.” On the tactical front, Gattuso previewed some of his ideas: “I want a team with a higher defensive line than Maurizio Sarri’s—whom I consider a great coach, even though my approach to soccer is different. Following Mario Gila’s departure, we’ll need a replacement, but first I want to get to know the players we have available in depth and make the most of them, especially since our financial resources aren’t unlimited. We’ll have to make as few mistakes as possible.”
Speaking about the transfer market, the coach confirmed the need to strengthen the defense, while also leaving the door open for other moves. “A center back will definitely be coming in, while up front we need to assess Ratkov’s situation, as he’s encountered some difficulties. We’ll need to make a couple of moves, but today I’d rather not go into details out of respect for the players already on the roster. In midfield we have quality players, and on the defensive flanks we’re actually well-stocked. The foundation is solid, and we’ll see how to improve it.” Gattuso also commented on Ivan Provedel’s departure: “We have Mandas and Motta; now we need to work calmly, shielding ourselves from an environment that isn’t exactly easy right now. The path forward is built on hard work, professionalism, and a sense of belonging. Change won’t be easy, but we must never lose our drive.”
For the former Milan and Napoli coach, this marks a return to Serie A after five years abroad—an experience he considers essential to his professional growth. “I felt the need for a different path. Coaching outside Italy allows you to blend your soccer culture with new ideas. We Italians have always been considered masters from a tactical standpoint, but soccer evolves rapidly, and in recent years I’ve tried to enrich myself by taking something from every experience I’ve had.”
Gattuso also reflected on the disappointment of Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup, which came down to a penalty shootout during his tenure with the Azzurri. “I thank all the players I’ve coached, because they gave me everything. Soccer is made up of moments: as a player, I was often lucky, but as a coach, I suffered a harsh blow. All the good work we’d built up was wiped out by that defeat, and no one remembers it anymore. It’s part of this job. There’s anger, but also a lot of confidence—otherwise, I wouldn’t be here.”
