Three candidates eyed to replace Gattuso as Italy coach

After a 10‑man loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in the World Cup play‑off, Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to step down as Italy’s head coach. The failure to qualify has triggered a major overhaul, with Gattuso, delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon and FIGC President Gabriele Gravina all set to depart. Among the front‑row candidates, Massimiliano Allegri – the current AC Milan boss with six Serie A titles – is seen as the “dream” choice, while former Italy coach Antonio Conte, who led the side to Euro 2016, is also in the mix. The Italian football federation is reportedly considering both names as it seeks a new direction for the national team.