By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The former Milan and Napoli manager Gennaro Gattuso has been appointed Italy’s national-team coach, the Italian football federation (FIGC) confirmed on Sunday.
Gattuso replaces Luciano Spalletti, who was sacked last week as a result of a 3-0 defeat by Norway in a World Cup qualifier.
The 47-year-old was part of the 2006 World Cup-winning side and won 73 caps for the national team as a player.
The Italian football federation (FIGC) said Gattuso would be presented to the media on Thursday.
“Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football,” said FIGC president Gabriele Gravina.
“The blue shirt is like a second skin for him. His motivation, his professionalism and his experience will be essential.
“(He is) Aware of the importance of the objective we want to achieve. I thank him for the total dedication with which he has accepted this challenge.”
Four-time champions Italy have failed to qualify for the past two World Cups and started their bid to reach next year’s tournament in North America with a 3-0 loss to Norway last week.