Gennaro Gattuso has issued an apology following Italy national football team’s stunning elimination at the hands of Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team, a result that confirmed their failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup once again.
Italy looked on course early in the match, taking a 1-0 lead through Moise Kean. However, the game shifted after Alessandro Bastoni was sent off, allowing Bosnia to level in the second half. Despite creating three clear chances while down to ten men, the Azzurri failed to convert and eventually lost on penalties.
The defeat marks an unwanted record, as no former World Cup-winning nation has now missed out on qualification as many as three times.
Speaking after the match, Gattuso expressed both pride and frustration. He insisted his players did not deserve the outcome, highlighting their effort despite being a man down.
“The boys didn’t deserve such a beating. We had our chances and gave everything—it’s disappointing, but I’m proud of them.”
The former midfielder admitted the result was painful, especially given its significance for the country.
“It hurts because we needed this for ourselves, for Italy, and for our football. It’s a tough blow to swallow.”
Gattuso also offered an apology to fans but praised his team’s resilience.
“I apologise for not making it to the World Cup, but the players surprised me with their heart.”
When asked about his future, the coach avoided speculation, stressing that the focus should remain on the disappointment of missing out on the tournament.
“My future isn’t important today. What mattered was qualifying—and we didn’t.”
