• Shaky support and imminent resignation

Gennaro Gattuso, Italy’s head coach, faces the real possibility of being let go after failing to guide the Azzurri to the 2026 World Cup.

Despite initial backing from Italian FA president Gabriele Gravina after the shocking loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina, reports from Rome suggest Gattuso’s job is far from safe, especially with rumors of Gravina himself stepping down on Thursday, leaving the coach exposed.

Mancini and Conte… familiar faces to revive the team?

Roberto Mancini tops the list of potential replacements. The Euro 2020-winning coach could return if Gravina exits, with his current Qatar club contract allowing a move for a national challenge.

Antonio Conte, now at Napoli, is also a strong candidate to restore discipline. Sources suggest Napoli may release him in May to prepare for June friendlies with Italy.

Guardiola… the “impossible dream”

In a bold twist, Spanish coach Pep Guardiola of Manchester City has been floated as a daring, expensive option. Even with his City contract through 2027, officials are tempted by a full overhaul of Italy’s playing style.

If he joins, Guardiola would be only the second foreign coach in Italy’s history since Helenio Herrera in the 1960s. The biggest hurdle is his massive salary, which could be covered by major team sponsors to make the “rescue deal” happen.