Donnarumma's confidence, Gattuso's fire: Italy's bold World Cup quest under a new era

Italy's New Era Under Gattuso Pushes Toward a 2026 World Cup

Italy's players praised coach Gennaro Gattuso after an impressive run that has seen the Azzurri win all four qualifying matches and collect 12 points. The team has looked sharper, mixing attacking intent with disciplined defense, and the growing confidence around the squad has fans dreaming of direct World Cup qualification in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, or at the very least, a playoff path.

Gianluigi Donnarumma, Italy's goalkeeper, expressed clear belief that this dream remains alive and that qualification is very much within reach for the group.

Israel rout seals a playoff spot; Donnarumma and Locatelli speak about the surge

Italy sealed a European playoff spot with a 3-0 victory over Israel, thanks to Matteo Ritigi scoring twice and Gianluca Mancini adding another. The win left the Italians with a 16-5 goal tally across four matches under the new manager, a figure that has fans buzzing about the future.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Donnarumma acknowledged a costly error in a recent game but reminded everyone that the team was already three goals ahead and should move forward with focus and unity. He noted that the group has shown resilience and togetherness under the coach's leadership and that the squad remains hungry for more challenges.

He added that he stayed fully focused on the latest match and was happy with the team's work. He said every remaining encounter would be tougher and that the group must fight for every point, facing opponents who will test them while maintaining a clean sheet as a source of pride.

Locatelli, part of the midfield spine, spoke about the growing confidence within the squad. He credited Gattuso for creating a positive environment and for being honest with players, whether they start or come off the bench. He said there is a genuine will to perform for the shirt, which matters greatly for group cohesion.

Gattuso has overseen a four-match winning streak, with 16 goals scored and five conceded, a historic start for a coach in charge of the national team. The coach's infectious passion and clear guidance have helped the players bond quickly, and Donnarumma expressed that the squad is ready for November and the decisive fixtures ahead.

The discussion also touched on Ritigi's self-evaluation. He acknowledged ups and downs in his form but stressed the team’s growing resilience and collective drive. Locatelli added that the group wants to keep improving and that the coach's energy has given them a much-needed push that had been missing in the past.

Ritigi's remarks about the Saudi Pro League offered a broader perspective: the league is tougher than many outsiders expect, and the experience has helped him maintain intensity and fitness. The blend of physical demands and tactical discipline is helping Italy shape a squad capable of competing at the world level.

Punchline 1: If Italy’s defense is as solid as their group chat, nothing gets through—except the occasional pun from a sideline reporter.

Punchline 2: Gattuso's pep talks are so fiery that even the substitutions come with hot sauce; a spicy lineup, indeed!