Italy’s head coach Gennaro Gattuso has cautioned his players against underestimating Northern Ireland as he gears up for “the most significant match” of his career.
With the four-time World Cup champions having missed out on qualification for the last two tournaments, the thought of losing to Michael O’Neill’s team in their playoff semifinal in Bergamo on Thursday night is almost unthinkable.
Gattuso, who won the World Cup as a player in 2006, was appointed as Italy’s manager in June following a disappointing start to their Group I campaign, ultimately finishing second to Norway, which prevented automatic qualification.
The pressure is mounting on Italy to secure a positive result in these playoffs, with the winner of Thursday’s clash going on to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final.
“I’d be lying if I said that when I lay my head on the pillow at night, I don’t hear the voices saying, ‘Take us to the World Cup’,” Gattuso admitted.
“I can hear it, and this is undoubtedly the most important game of my career, despite my coaching experience up to now.
“That said, I feel prepared, and trust me, I am not contemplating negative outcomes. I prefer to focus on the positives and think big. Tomorrow we will play our game, and then we will see what happens.”
While Gattuso has a squad brimming with seasoned players, he acknowledged the potential threat posed by a motivated Northern Ireland side, which will be missing key Premier League players Conor Bradley and Dan Ballard due to injury.
O’Neill’s youthful squad has adapted its style of play, yet Gattuso noted that their primary tactic still involves long balls and competing for second chances—a comment that previously sparked controversy when made by Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann last year.
Gattuso clarified that he meant no offence with his remarks.
“We need to be prepared to deal with Northern Ireland’s style of play, particularly their tendency to send high balls into the box,” Gattuso commented. “Any free kick could lead to their goalkeeper launching a long ball forward, with eight or nine players competing fiercely for loose balls and rebounds.
“The players understand what is required of them—to be alert to danger and committed to every play. We also need to be cautious on set pieces. While long balls may not be their only tactic, it is their main strength, and they execute it effectively.”
Earlier this week, Gattuso shared that he has traveled extensively throughout Italy and made trips abroad to break bread with his players to boost team morale.
One of these trips took him to Saudi Arabia, where striker Mateo Retegui currently plays under Brendan Rodgers with Al Qadsiah.
Retegui praised the Northern Irish manager, highlighting O’Neill’s strong record since taking charge in December, which includes 14 wins and three draws.
“I have a great relationship with Brendan,” Retegui said. “I can’t say enough positive things about him.
“He has wished me good fortune, but our discussions go beyond just this match. He’s a fantastic person and an exceptional coach, proven throughout his career.”
Information from PA contributed to this story.