Gattuso: ‘Italy can’t relax – we must secure playoff spot before it’s too late’ – Football Italia

Gennaro Gattuso has warned Italy cannot afford any complacency ahead of their World Cup 2026 qualifier against Estonia, insisting his players must continue to collect points to secure a playoff place.

“The truth is we have to get as many points as possible because Israel are right there,” he told reporters on the eve of the match, via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“We can’t make calculations. We don’t qualify automatically, so we can’t play with fire. Until mathematics says we’re through, we must earn it. No jokes – we have to be serious.”

Gattuso said the focus would remain entirely on Italy’s own performance, explaining that he and his staff would not even watch Norway-Israel. “We need points, full concentration, and then we’ll see what happens,” he said.

Italy coach Gattuso praises Spinazzola

The coach praised the atmosphere in camp and the attitude shown by Leonardo Spinazzola, describing him as “a smiling guy with great quality” who has shown complete commitment even when asked to adapt. “He prefers to play on the left,” Gattuso admitted, “but he knows he must help us wherever needed. That’s important, and I thank him for it.”

Gattuso also confirmed Giacomo Raspadori is in contention to start, noting that “players must always be ready with five substitutions available – they have to give everything.” He added that Nicolò Cambiaghi is also prepared for a debut, saying: “Of course he’s ready; otherwise I wouldn’t have called him.”

Gattuso on return to Italy

Reflecting on his return to Italian football, the former Milan and Napoli boss said Serie A remains one of the most challenging leagues in Europe. “I worked abroad, but tactically Italy is on another level,” he said. “That’s why coaches here are so prepared.”

Gattuso concluded that he wants Italy to approach the Estonia game with the same courage and intensity shown in recent performances, maintaining focus until qualification is mathematically secured.