Tag: Gennaro Gattuso

Italy’s World Cup Failure Deepens After Bonus Dispute Report

Gennaro Gattuso
April 2026

Italy’s collapse against Bosnia and Herzegovina has been followed by reports that players sought a qualification bonus shortly before the decisive match. The alleged request has intensified criticism of the squad’s mindset after another World Cup disaster. Football Italia, citing La Repubblica, reported that the squad asked for a €300,000 team bonus, around €10,000 per player, before the playoff final. The same report says Gattuso rejected the discussion and argued that rewards should only be discussed after qualification had been secured.

Gattuso Sends Chiesa Home Before Italy’s World Cup Playoff With Northern Ireland

Gennaro Gattuso
March 2026

Gennaro Gattuso confirmed Federico Chiesa left Italy’s camp before the playoff against Northern Ireland after reporting minor physical issues and doubts over his readiness. The decision removes one of Italy’s most experienced wide options from a match carrying huge pressure and qualification stakes. Gattuso said Chiesa’s condition and mindset did not justify keeping him with the squad, adding that the choice was taken together. Italy are now focusing fully on the playoff, with the coach stressing calmness, positivity and the need to avoid another World Cup qualifying collapse

De Rossi Stays Positive Despite Genoa Defeat and Backs Italy Mood Shift

Daniele De Rossi
March 2026

Daniele De Rossi said Genoa could still take pride from their performance despite losing to Udinese, though he admitted frustration at missing a chance to move closer to safety. He also called for a more positive attitude around Italy and Gennaro Gattuso. De Rossi said his side lacked a decisive spark and a bit of luck, while refusing to blame VAR for the result despite lingering concern from previous officiating issues. He then urged Italians to stop criticising the national team so quickly and support Gattuso’s World Cup push.

Chiesa Returns to Italy Squad for World Cup Playoff Push

Federico Chiesa
March 2026

Federico Chiesa has returned to the Italy squad for the World Cup playoffs, ending his absence from the national team since Euro 2024. The Liverpool forward is part of Gennaro Gattuso’s 28-man group for the knockout route that begins against Northern Ireland. Italy’s official squad announcement confirmed Chiesa’s recall alongside several other key names, with the first playoff set for Bergamo before a possible second match against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina. His return gives Italy an experienced wide option for a high-pressure international window.

Gattuso apologises after Italy collapse against Haaland-inspired Norway

Gennaro Gattuso (Italy)
November 2025

Italy’s World Cup hopes took another hit as they collapsed to a 4-1 defeat at San Siro after leading at half-time. Pio Esposito’s opener briefly raised belief they could chase an unlikely automatic spot, but Norway’s response killed any remaining optimism. Norway hit back through Antonio Nusa before Erling Haaland struck twice and Jorgen Strand Larsen added a ruthless fourth, exposing Italian fragility. Gennaro Gattuso admitted fear gripped his players after the break, while Gianluigi Donnarumma lamented Italy stopped playing with the intensity shown before half-time.

Gattuso hails Italy’s “craziest game” after 5-4 win

Gennaro Gattuso (Italy)
September 2025

Italy beat Israel 5-4 in a thrilling World Cup qualifier, with Tonali scoring a stoppage-time winner. Gattuso admitted it was the “craziest game” of his career, as Italy blew multiple leads before eventually securing vital points. Gattuso criticised Italy’s reckless attacking approach that allowed Israel to counter repeatedly. Despite the defensive lapses, the late winner boosted Italy to second in Group I, three points behind leaders Norway, reviving hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup play-offs.

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