Gennaro Gattuso‘s Italy currently finds itself in a challenging but not desperate position in World Cup qualifying: it sits second in Group I with 9 points, tied with Israel, but with a game in hand. Norway leads with 15 points.
So, it’s not the time for drama, but it’s definitely the time to show your teeth: focus, mental strength, and a few flashes of brilliance from the most decisive players are needed.
In short, growl, not scream anxiety or desperation.
Where we stand, numbers, and scenarios
After the opening defeat against Norway (3-0) away, Italy responded with a positive streak: a victory over Moldova, then a resounding 5-0 victory over Estonia, and immediately afterward a firotechnic comeback against Israel (4-5), which highlighted their character but also some defensive limitations.
Now, with Norway in the lead, the primary objective is to stay in the mix:
first place leads to direct qualification, while second place means a playoff spot, which is less certain but still leaves the door open to the World Cup.
The matches that count double are:
- October 11, 2025 – Estonia vs. Italy (away)
- October 14, 2025 – Italy vs. Israel (Udine, home)
After these two matches, there are still the clashes against Moldova and the decisive head-to-head against Norway in November.
The Italian Pillars
Gattuso is building a team that must embody grit, consistency, and quality. Here’s who can make the difference:
- Gianluigi Donnarumma – He’s an absolute benchmark. After a great season with Paris Saint-Germain, he recently made the move to Manchester City, confirming his position as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. A winner of the 2021 European Championship with Italy, he also finished ninth in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings, the highest ranking for an Italian in the last eight years. He boasts charisma, responsiveness, and a winning mentality.
- Nicolò Barella – Heart, pace, and runs: essential in midfield to link defense and attack. He is the epitome of a dynamic and aggressive midfield.
- Alessandro Bastoni and Riccardo Calafiori – In defense, they represent the perfect blend of solidity and ball possession. They are essential for building from the back and providing confidence in the build-up play.
- Sandro Tonali – Leadership and pace management. In moments of balance, he is responsible for keeping the team in control, dictating the tempo, and instilling order in the play.
Bets to Watch
To complete the picture, you also need surprises, those players who can change the game in unexpected ways:
- Bryan Cristante – Recalled by Gattuso after an absence, he can provide balance and experience in midfield.
- Hans Nicolussi Caviglia – New in the Azzurri midfield: talent, freshness, and a desire to shine.
- Nicolò Cambiaghi – Quick and aggressive striker, useful for breaking the game open in the second half.
- Roberto Piccoli – Called up to the national team for the first time, like Nicolussi Caviglia and Cambiaghi. A powerful striker, skilled with his back to goal and in pressing, he could become a useful tool for adding depth and physicality to the attack.
- Francesco Pio Esposito – Young and ambitious, with the determination of someone who wants to secure a permanent place in the Azzurri. Gattuso admires him for his intensity and spirit of sacrifice.
Tactical insights and mentality
Gattuso is calling for an Italy team capable of combining physical strength and organization. Defending with intensity, pressing high, and not allowing any breaks.
However, precise mental management is also required: after games of great momentum (like the comeback against Israel), the usual slump must not follow.
The defensive aspect remains an area that needs fixing: conceding goals, especially early on or after lapses in concentration, can compromise control of matches.
With the addition of players like Cristante and Caviglia, Gattuso is trying to blend experience and freshness, building a team capable of reacting and growing.
Playoff Scenarios: Who We Could Face as Group Runners-Up
If Italy fails to win its group and qualifies as runners-up, it will enter the UEFA playoffs for the 2026 World Cup.
16 teams will participate: the 12 European group runners-up and the four best group winners from the 2024/25 Nations League who have not already qualified directly.
The playoffs will be divided into four paths, each with a semifinal and a one-off final, scheduled for March 2026.
Based on the FIFA rankings and the Nations League, Italy would likely be top seed, avoiding their toughest rivals in the semifinals.
Potential opponents to keep an eye on include Scotland, Greece, Iceland, Georgia, Turkey, North Macedonia, Serbia, the Czech Republic, Wales, and Slovakia.
However, everything will depend on the final results of the other groups and the draw.
Hunger and Identity
Italy isn’t on its knees, but it’s in a crucial phase.
It must bring everything together: head, heart, and hunger.
“RInghiare” like Gattuso used to do, it’s not just about fighting: it means being hungry for every ball, every opportunity, every victory.
Gattuso has the opportunity to build a new era, founded on grit and identity.
The next few matches will be crucial not only for the standings, but for the confidence of a team that can and must return to the pitch.