Italy’s failure to qualify for a third straight World Cup has intensified scrutiny on the entire football structure, with the latest blow coming in a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the European playoff final. The Azzurri have now gone without an appearance at the tournament since 2014, extending a run that has become increasingly difficult to justify for a nation with such a rich footballing history.
Italy’s failure to qualify for a third straight World Cup has intensified scrutiny on the entire football structure, with the latest blow coming in a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the European playoff final. The Azzurri have now gone without an appearance at the tournament since 2014, extending a run that has become increasingly difficult to justify for a nation with such a rich footballing history.
The defeat has amplified frustration among supporters, officials, and political figures, with many describing the situation as unacceptable. The inability to secure a place at the finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico has been widely labeled a national embarrassment, prompting renewed calls for sweeping reform across Italian football.
Gennaro Gattuso’s position as head coach now appears fragile following the failed campaign. He took over in June 2025 alongside Gianluigi Buffon after Luciano Spalletti was dismissed, inheriting a team already struggling and trailing Norway in their qualification group.
Despite their efforts to steady the situation, the duo were unable to reverse Italy’s fortunes. Buffon confirmed that both he and Gattuso will remain in place in the short term, stressing the importance of evaluating the situation carefully before making any long-term decisions.
He indicated that clarity will likely come after the conclusion of the domestic season in June, leaving the national team in a period of uncertainty as the federation considers its next steps.
The fallout from the failed qualification has extended beyond the coaching staff to the leadership of the Italian Football Federation. President Gabriele Gravina has come under intense pressure, with political voices openly calling for his resignation.
Members of the ruling coalition described the situation as a disgrace, while sports minister Andrea Abodi emphasized the need for a complete rebuild, starting from the top of the federation. The growing criticism reflects a broader belief that the issues affecting the national team are systemic rather than isolated to results on the pitch.
Among the potential replacements, Massimiliano Allegri has been highlighted as a leading candidate and a popular choice among supporters. Currently managing AC Milan, he has a proven record in Serie A, including a title with Milan and a dominant period at Juventus.
During his time in Turin, Allegri secured multiple league titles and domestic doubles, establishing himself as one of Italy’s most successful managers. However, his second spell at Juventus drew criticism for a cautious tactical approach, and his departure was surrounded by controversy following his behavior after a cup final.
His return to Milan in 2025 means any move to the national team would require negotiations, but his experience and track record make him an appealing option.
Roberto Mancini is another prominent name in contention and is reportedly interested in returning to the role. His previous tenure included Italy’s triumph at Euro 2020 and a record unbeaten streak of 37 matches, marking one of the most successful periods in recent history.
However, his inability to guide the team to the 2022 World Cup and his subsequent resignation remain significant drawbacks. Since leaving, his managerial career has included brief and challenging spells in Saudi Arabia and with Al-Sadd.
Antonio Conte is also firmly in the conversation. He previously led Italy at Euro 2016, guiding them to the quarter-finals, and has consistently delivered success at club level with Juventus, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Napoli.
Conte’s strong personality and winning mentality could make him an attractive option, though his current involvement in club football may complicate any potential appointment.
Stefano Pioli represents a more immediately available option, having been dismissed by Fiorentina in November 2025. His managerial career includes spells at several major Italian clubs, and he led AC Milan to a Serie A title in 2022.
Despite his experience, his most recent roles — including his time at Fiorentina and in Saudi Arabia — have not been successful, raising questions about whether he is the right figure to lead a rebuild at international level.
Fabio Cannavaro’s name has also surfaced, largely due to his iconic status as a player. As captain of Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning side and Ballon d’Or recipient, he remains one of the most respected figures in Italian football.
However, his coaching career has been inconsistent. While he achieved success in China with Guangzhou Evergrande, his spells at various clubs have been short and largely unsuccessful. He is currently managing Uzbekistan and will lead them at the upcoming World Cup, but stepping into the Italy role would represent a major challenge.
Thiago Motta is another candidate under consideration, though his case is more complex. His tenure at Juventus ended after nine difficult months marked by heavy defeats, which damaged his reputation.
Nevertheless, his earlier work at Bologna, where he impressed between 2022 and 2024, demonstrated his potential and earned him the Juventus job in the first place. Having been out of work since his departure, he is available, but appointing him would be a bold move given the current pressure surrounding the national team.
