The Italy national team is exploring options to gather before their World Cup play-off campaign in March. According to reports from Corriere dello Sport, head coach Gennaro Gattuso plans to organize team dinners in three cities to connect with his players before the crucial matches.
Italy’s Plans to Unite Before World Cup Play-offs
Italy’s spot in the World Cup play-offs was confirmed following a 4-1 loss against Norway. The Azzurri concluded qualification Group I with 18 points from eight matches, which, unfortunately, fell short as Norway qualified with a perfect win rate.
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The defeat to Norway was Italy’s last game before the semi-finals of the World Cup play-offs on March 26. With Gattuso having only a few days to work with his players at the start of the international break, plans are underway to bring the squad together beforehand.
BERGAMO – SEPTEMBER 05: Gennaro Gattuso during the national anthems prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025, in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
There have been suggestions that the FIGC might look into rescheduling Serie A or Coppa Italia matches to support the national team, but this remains unlikely due to logistical challenges.
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As per the latest reports from Corriere dello Sport, Gattuso is organizing team dinners in three different cities ahead of the next international break in March. The gatherings will take place in Milan for northern players, in Rome for those based in the central and southern regions, and in London for players currently in the Premier League.