The Italian Football Federation and Gennaro Ivan Gattuso have agreed by mutual decision to terminate the Calabrian coach’s contract with the Italian national team. The FIGC thanks Gattuso and his entire staff for the professionalism, dedication, and passion shown over the past nine months, and wishes them all the best for the future. 

“With a heavy heart, and having fallen short of the goal we set ourselves, I feel my time as head coach of the national team has come to an end,” said Gattuso. “The Azzurri shirt is the most precious thing in football, and for that reason it’s only right to make way immediately for the Federation’s future decisions. I would like to thank President Gabriele Gravina and Gianluigi Buffon, along with everyone at the Federation , for the trust and support they have always shown me. It has been an honour to lead the national team, especially with a group of players who have shown such commitment and dedication. But my biggest thanks go to the fans, to all Italians who, over these months, have never stopped showing their love and support for the team. I will always carry the Azzurri in my heart.” 

“I would once again like to thank Gattuso,” said Gravina, “because, beyond being a special person, he made valuable contribution as a coach, managing in just a few months to bring enthusiasm back around the national team. He instilled a real sense of pride in the Azzurri shirt among the players and the entire country.”