Italian Serie A side Lazio have appointed Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach, marking his return to club management shortly after his departure from the Italy national team following a disappointing qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The club confirmed the appointment on Tuesday, bringing the 48-year-old back into coaching after he stepped down from the national team role in the wake of Italy’s failure to secure qualification for the tournament.

Gattuso’s exit from the Azzurri followed widespread criticism after Italy were eliminated in the World Cup qualification playoffs, extending the country’s recent struggles on the international stage.

At Lazio, he takes over from Maurizio Sarri, who left the club after a difficult season that saw the Rome-based side miss out on European competition qualification. The club’s decision is viewed as part of a broader effort to rebuild and restore competitiveness in Serie A.

In an official statement announcing his arrival, Lazio expressed confidence in the new manager’s leadership and experience.

“The club warmly welcomes its new manager and is confident that his experience, professionalism and determination will help the club achieve its sporting objectives,” Lazio said.

Gattuso, a 2006 FIFA World Cup winner as a player, previously managed clubs including AC Milan and Napoli, where he won the Coppa Italia in 2020. His managerial career has been marked by both notable achievements and periods of inconsistency, though he remains widely respected for his intensity and leadership qualities.

Reactions to his appointment have been mixed, with supporters pointing to his top-level experience, while critics question his tactical consistency following Italy’s unsuccessful qualification campaign.

Italy continue to undergo restructuring after Gattuso’s departure, as the national team works to recover from another missed opportunity to reach the World Cup.

Gattuso now faces immediate pressure at Lazio, where expectations remain high as the club seeks to re-establish itself among Italy’s leading sides and return to European competition contention.