Italian midfielder Nicolo Barella has spoken candidly ahead of the national team’s new era under head coach Gennaro Gattuso. The Inter Milan star admitted that many things went wrong in previous managerial reigns, but he now believes Italy has a real chance to rebuild its confidence and restore pride.
The Gattuso era officially begins tonight when Italy face Estonia in the opening fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. For the fiery former midfielder, it will be a high-pressure debut on the bench, and for the players, an opportunity to turn the page after years of frustration.
Barella, widely regarded as one of the most influential midfielders in Serie A, emphasized that Italy’s mission is not only about winning matches but also about rediscovering their identity as a collective force. He also praised Gattuso’s impact in reigniting belief inside the dressing room.
Italy’s Mission: Rediscovering Their Identity
Looking ahead to this new chapter, Barella underlined that the most important task for Gli Azzurri is to reclaim their identity. Beyond tactical changes, he stressed the need to rebuild self-confidence and to play with the pride expected when representing the four-time world champions.
“The key is to find ourselves again, that’s the most important thing,” Barella told Sky Sport Italia.
“We need to recover our confidence, step on the pitch with courage, and represent our country in the best way possible.”
His words reflect the mood in the Italian camp, where there is both excitement and urgency. After missing the last two World Cups, Italy cannot afford another setback on the road to 2026.
Problems in the Mancini and Spalletti Eras
Barella did not shy away from acknowledging the difficulties of recent years. Italy’s failure to qualify for both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups remains one of the darkest periods in the nation’s football history.
He noted that while Roberto Mancini brought success with the Euro 2020 triumph, the end of his tenure was marked by inconsistency and disappointment. Luciano Spalletti’s short spell also failed to stabilize the squad.
“A lot of things went wrong. We struggled at the end of Mancini’s era and then again under Spalletti. That’s why rediscovering ourselves today is the most crucial step,” Barella admitted.
Still, he sees hope in the way Gattuso has already inspired the team.
“Coach Gattuso gives us confidence and reassurance. He pushes us to work harder, and now it’s our duty to repay him with performances on the pitch,” Barella added.
Midfield Partnerships: Ready for Any Role
Barella is expected to remain a cornerstone of Italy’s midfield under Gattuso. There has been much speculation about him forming a strong partnership with Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United.
Yet, the Inter star emphasized that he is happy to play alongside any teammate, as long as it helps Italy rediscover the cohesion that once made them so formidable.
“It would be a joy to play with Sandro, or with any of our midfielders,” Barella said.
“What matters most is building chemistry in the middle of the park, because unity has always been Italy’s trademark.”
Gattuso’s Recipe for Revival
For Barella, the arrival of Gennaro Gattuso has already brought a breath of fresh air. The 2006 World Cup winner has infused the squad with energy, hunger, and a warrior mentality that Italy seemed to have lost.
Barella believes Gattuso’s experience as both a player and a coach is invaluable in guiding this generation through its rebuilding phase.
“The coach has lived those moments; he lifted trophies in his career and knows what it takes,” Barella explained.
“He is helping us rediscover the desire to fight together. We need hunger, pride, and above all, the joy of playing football again.”
A Defining Moment for Italy
As Italy prepare to kick off their World Cup 2026 qualifying journey against Estonia in Bergamo, the expectations are enormous. Barella’s comments highlight both the mistakes of the past and the hope for the future.
For Gattuso, this debut represents more than just a match—it is the first step in restoring Italy’s reputation on the world stage. And for Barella, it is about ensuring that the national team once again becomes a symbol of unity, resilience, and pride.
If Gli Azzurri can rediscover their identity under Gattuso, Italian fans may finally have reasons to believe that the darkest years are behind them.
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