Gattuso Wants 'Sense of Belonging' to Revive Azzurri

Italy's new coach Gennaro Gattuso has pledged to restore enthusiasm and create a "family" atmosphere at the battered national team, who are aiming to secure qualification for the World Cup Finals after missing out twice in a row.

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ROME - Italy's new coach Gennaro Gattuso has pledged to restore enthusiasm and create a "family" atmosphere at the battered national team, who are aiming to secure qualification for the World Cup Finals after missing out twice in a row.

The 47-year-old replaces Luciano Spalletti, who was sacked in the aftermath of a 3-0 defeat by Norway in a World Cup qualifier on June 6. The 66-year-old officially departed three days later after his final match in charge, a 2-0 victory over Moldova.

"The primary aim is to create a sense of belonging" to the Azzurri team, Gattuso told reporters during his presentation to the press at a luxury hotel in central Rome on June 19.

"My goal is that whoever comes to the training ground comes with great enthusiasm and to create a family atmosphere."

Asked whether he had more hope or conviction that Italy could reach the 2026 showpiece, he said: "conviction."