Based on an interview given to Corriere dello Sport, outgoing FIGC president Gabriele Gravina recapped the "Gattuso era": He once again firmly defended his decision to appoint Gennaro Gattuso, despite the disastrous outcome. Recall that Gattuso took the helm in June 2025 following Luciano Spalletti's departure but failed to clear the final hurdle to qualification. "Gattuso is a 'well-prepared coach and a wonderful person,'" Gravina said, continuing: "Despite having little time for training, he managed to give the team a soul. It wasn't enough, and he was the first to be sorry." However, he also shifted part of the blame onto the players, noting that several key individuals did not meet expectations or were hindered by injuries. "Maybe I should have been a better footballer. I missed two penalties against Switzerland and three chances against Bosnia... From the spot, I sent one over the bar and hit the crossbar with another," he added. Following this debacle, the leadership structure of Italian football is undergoing a complete overhaul. Recall that the Dragons defeated Italy on penalties on March 31st in Zenica, with a 4-1 result, thus qualifying for the World Cup.