Gianluigi Buffon has confirmed that he has resigned from his role as the delegation chief of the Italy national team following the departure of Gabriele Gravina as FIGC President.
Heads are rolling within the Italy national team set-up. FIGC President Gabriele Gravina officially resigned on Tuesday, Buffon has confirmed that he has stepped down and head coach Gennaro Gattuso is expected to follow as well.
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The departures of the senior figures of the Italy national team are leaving in the wake of the penalty shoot-out defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Tuesday night’s World Cup play-off final, which cost the Azzurri a place at the World Cup for the third time in a row.
Buffon, in a long statement posted to his Instagram story, confirmed that he offered his resignation immediately after the Bosnia defeat on Tuesday night, but was asked to hold off from making any formal announcements.
Now that Gravina has officially resigned, Buffon has made his decision public as well.
Buffon had served as the head of the delegation of the Italy national team from the summer of 2023.
What Buffon said about Italy resignation
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Gianluigi Buffon, Head of Delegation of Italy, looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Resigning just after the end of the match against Bosnia was an urgent act, one that came from deep within me. As spontaneous as the tears that ache in my heart, and which I know I share with all of you,” Buffon wrote in a statement on Instagram.
“I was asked to stall until everyone had the time to reflect. Now that President Gravina has chosen to step back, I feel free to do what I feel is the responsible act. Despite my sincere belief that I have built so much in terms of team spirit with Rino Gattuso and all of my collaborators in the very short time available to the national team, the main objective was to bring Italy back to the World Cup. And we didn’t succeed.
“It’s right to leave those who will follow me to choose the person they deem best to fill my role.
“Representing the national team is an honor for me and a passion that has consumed me since I was a boy.
“I have tried to do my role by putting all my energy into it, wanting all sectors to be linked, a link for dialogue and synergy between various youth teams, striving to structure a project that starts with the very young lads and reaches all the way up to the U21 national teams. This was to rethink the way in which the talents of the future senior national team are developed.
“I requested and obtained the inclusion of a few key, highly experienced figures, who are bringing out these necessary chances with a medium and long-term vision. This is because I believe in the policy of meritocracy. It will be up to those in charge to judge the wisdom of these choices.
“I hold everything in my heart, with gratitude for the privilege and the lessons learned, even if it is a painful epilogue.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has offered his full support to the recently-resigned FIGC chief Gabriele Gravina, and says that politicians are the ones who should take most of the responsibility for Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup three times in a row.
Ceferin was in the stands alongside Gravina in Zenica for the play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The pair have worked closely alongside each other as part of UEFA’s executive committee, of which Ceferin is the President and Gravina the first vice-President.
Ceferin gave his thoughts on the current situation surrounding Italian football and the calls for Gravina’s head in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, which was published on Thursday morning, a few hours before Gravina’s resignation was announced.
UEFA President defends Gravina and slams Italian politics
Ceferin found it difficult to decide whether or not it was a ‘surprise’ that Italy failed to get past Bosnia and Herzegovina in Tuesday night’s World Cup play-off final.
“In one way yes, but on the other hand, Bosnia have a young and strong team that played at home,” he said. “There was much more pressure on Italy. Bosnia deserved to go to the World Cup, Italy lost after having a man sent off.”
Ceferin admits that it is no surprise that fans had called for Gravina to step down in light of Italy’s third consecutive World Cup failure.
“When I was the President of the Slovenian federation, I always said to the coach: ‘If you win, you and the players will be the heroes. If you lose, the blame will fall on the two of us’.
“It is absolutely not Gabriele’s responsibility and I wouldn’t allow myself to attack either the players or the coach. Perhaps it is the Italian politicians who should ask themselves why Italy has one of the worst footballing infrastructures in Europe.”
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: (L-R) President of CONI Luciano Buonfiglio, President of FIGC Gabriele Gravina and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin look on prior the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Ceferin hinted that he thinks members of the Italy national team set-up were effectively hoping for Gravina’s downfall.
“It makes me angry and sad that there are people who stay ‘hidden’ and wait for something to go wrong and then jump out and start criticising. They don’t support Italy, they just support themselves.
“Tell me one Italian player who wasn’t called up that should have been? It’s football, and even with the best players on the pitch, anyone can lose a game.
“Gabriele is my first vice-President and he’s very important to me. But the biggest loss would be for the FIGC. It won’t be easy to find a gentleman who loves football and Italy as much as he does. But I’m not so naive as to believe that some of these self-centred people, who were just waiting for something to go wrong, will be thinking about it. They don’t care.”
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“Euro 3023 is scheduled and will take place. I hope the infrastructure will be ready, otherwise the tournament will not be played in Italy.”
And giving his final comment, Ceferin said: “Italy is one of the biggest footballing nations and will return to the top. The biggest problem in Italian football is the relationship between football politics and ‘normal’ politics. If everyone fell into line, they’d soon become European and world champions again. And if the negativity continues, then things in football will go terribly wrong.”
The contents of a 900-page report presented by the legendary Roberto Baggio have cropped up in conversations among supporters in the wake of Italy’s third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup. Here is what we know about the report and the changes that were recommended over 15 years ago.
Back in August 2010, Baggio was appointed as the head of the technical sector within the FIGC set-up and in December of 2011, presented a 900-page report that proposed a major overhaul of the federation’s training methods and its pathway for young talents.
Baggio resigned from his position in 2013, claiming that the recommendations that he brought forward had been completely ignored.
What was in Baggio’s 900-page Italy report?
As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Baggio had called for ‘adequate’ sporting facilities and wanted 100 different training centres to be operated by the FIGC.
FLORENCE, ITALY – JUNE 03: Roberto Baggio looks on during a press conference at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on June 03, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Baggio also wanted to change the approach that the FIGC had to training coaches and managers. He wanted to focus on coaches who were well educated, preferably with degrees and with different professional experiences, not necessarily within football.
He also wanted to implement a permanent study group, made up of FIGC members and university researchers, that would have been in ‘constant contact’ with coaching and backroom staff.
Baggio also called for a vast improvement of data collection within the youth sector.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JUNE 14: (L-R) Andreina Fabbi and Roberto Baggio attend the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group A match between Al Ahly FC and Internacional CF Miami at Hard Rock Stadium on June 14, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Alekandra London/Getty Images)
He wanted 100 different training centres in 100 different districts of Italy, with three FIGC coaches assigned to each one. His aim was to have 50,000 matches per year for young Italian talents to prove themselves.
Baggio also felt that there was too much attention being paid to tactical approach rather than technique, which is a topic that continues to come up in 2026.
These suggestions were completely ignored 15 years ago, but now, with a major overhaul of the FIGC and national team set-up expected, Italy might be wise to revisit some of the topics that Baggio addressed all the way back in 2011.
Gabriele Gravina has officially resigned from his position as President of the FIGC following Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup for the third tournament cycle in a row.
An election to appoint his replacement will take place on June 22.
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Present at the emergency FIGC meeting were Serie A President Ezio Simonelli, Serie B President Paolo Bedin, Serie C President Matteo Marani, President of the amateur leagues Giancarlo Abete, head of the players’ association Umberto Calcagno and head of the coaches’ association Renzo Ulivieri.
Gravina has held the highest position within the Italian football association since October 2018. The Nazionale won Euro 2020 during his tenure, but also failed to qualify for the 2022 and 2026 World Cups while he was in charge. Italy had also failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup prior to Gravina’s appointment.
Gravina was in charge of the Italian federation for the appointments of Luciano Spalletti and Gennaro Gattuso as head coaches in 2023 and 2025 respectively.
epa10835406 Italy’s national soccer team head coach Luciano Spalletti (R) and President of the Italian Football Federation Gabriele Gravina attend a press conference in Coverciano in Florence, Italy, 02 September 2023. EPA-EFE/CLAUDIO GIOVANNINI
There had been calls from fans and senior figures within Italian football for Gravina to step down from his position as FIGC President in the wake of the latest failure to qualify for the World Cup.
Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi said on Wednesday that: “it’s evident that Italian football needs to be rebuilt, and this process must start with a renewal of the FIGC leadership.”
It remains to be seen who will take over the position as the head of the Italian football association.
Former CONI chief Giovanni Malago is among the early frontrunners, as are the aforementioned Abete and Marani.
What FIGC said about Gravina resignation
“The meeting between President Gabriele Gravina and the presidents of the federal components took place today at the FIGC headquarters in Rome,” began a statement from the FIGC.
“At the beginning of the work, Gravina informed the top representatives of the Serie A Football League Ezio Maria Simonelli, the B League Paolo Bedin, the Pro League Matteo Marani, the National Amateur League Giancarlo Abete, the Italian Footballers Association Umberto Calcagno and the Italian Football Coaches Association Renzo Ulivieri, that he had resigned from the position entrusted to him in February 2025 and that he had called the Extraordinary Elective Assembly of the FIGC for the June 22 in Rome.
“The date was identified in full compliance with the Federal Statute and to ensure that the new governance can complete the registration procedure for the next professional championships.
“During the meeting, Gravina thanked the members for renewing, in public and private, the closeness and support to himself and informed the presidents that he had gladly made himself available to speak at a hearing on 8 April (11 am) in the VII Commission for Culture, Science and Education of the Chamber of Deputies to report on the state of health of Italian football.
“It will be there that President Gravina will expose, in the most complete and exhaustive way possible, a report on the strengths and weaknesses of the movement, also touching on some of the issues already addressed in the press conference held after the national team match played in Zenica last Tuesday 31 March.
“In this regard, Gravina said he regretted the interpretation of his words on the difference between amateur and professional sports, which were absolutely not intended to be offensive to any sporting discipline, but were a reference to the different internal laws and regulations (for example, the presence in the governance of some Federations of Leagues with their relative autonomy) and external (with express reference to the corporate nature of the Clubs professional football clubs that must be subject to national and international legislation different from amateur clubs).”
Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to leave his position as head coach of the Italy national team following his failure to guide the Nazionale to the 2026 World Cup, and according to the latest updates, there are three main candidates to replace him.
Who could replace Gattuso as Italy national team head coach?
Gattuso and his players fell short in the World Cup play-off final away against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday night. The 10-man Azzurri lost on penalties away in Zenica, which means that they have now failed to qualify for the last three World Cup tournaments.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Players of Italy show their dejection of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
As a result, Italian football is set for a major overhaul, with Gattuso expected to leave his position in the imminent future, Gianluigi Buffon expected to leave his role as delegation chief, and Gabriele Gravina to depart the position of President of the FIGC.
According to reports from Sky Sport Italia and others, there are three early options to replace Gattuso as head coach.
The ‘dream’ option for many Azzurri supporters would be Massimiliano Allegri, who is less than a year into his two-year deal with Milan, which also includes an option to extend for a further 12 months.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Massimiliano Allegri head coach of AC Milan during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The former Juventus head coach has never previously coached the national team, but is the second-most successful Serie A coach of all time with 6 Scudetti to his name.
There have also been reports of a potential return to the Italy set-up for Antonio Conte, who previously held the position between 2014 and 2016.
NAPLES, ITALY – MARCH 14: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and US Lecce at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on March 14, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Conte went 10 matches unbeaten at the start of his Italy spell and comfortably secured qualification for Euro 2016, but left to join Chelsea in the Premier League after guiding the team to a quarter-final finish at the tournament.
Another former Italy CT who could potentially return to the role is Roberto Mancini, whois currently under contract with Al-Sadd in 2027. Reports from Sky indicate that he would ‘gladly’ return to the position.
AL RAYYAN, QATAR – JANUARY 25: Roberto Mancini, Head Coach of Saudi Arabia reacts during the AFC Asian Cup Group F match between Saudi Arabia and Thailand at Education City Stadium on January 25, 2024 in Al Rayyan, Qatar. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
Italy won EURO 2020 under the stewardship of Mancini in the summer of 2021, but also failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup during his tenure.
There have also been suggestions of Simone Inzaghi and Stefano Pioli, who are currently considered outsiders for the role.
Gabriele Gravina has arrived at the FIGC quarters ahead of an emergency meeting of the federation’s general council, and the head of the Italian FA is expected to tender his resignation once the session gets underway, according to various reports in Italy.
Italy set for major overhaul with Gattuso, Gravina and Buffon departures
The Italy national team and the nation’s football association is set for a major overhaul following the World Cup play-off final defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday night, which means that the Azzurri will miss out on the final tournament for the third time in a row.
According to reports from Sky Sport Italia and various others, Gravina arrived at the FIGC headquarters in Rome on Tuesday morning and will speak to the federation’s council at around 13.30 BST (14.30 CET).
He is expected to offer his resignation from his position as President of the Italian football association.
Part of the meeting will be Serie A President Ezio Simonelli, Serie B PResident Paolo Bedin, Serie C President Matteo Marani, Amateur League President Giancarlo Abete, players’ association chief Umberto Calcagno and coaches’ association head Renzo Ulivieri.
Multiple outlets are reporting that Gennaro Gattuso will step down from his position as head coach of the Italy national team and that Gianluigi Buffon will also depart following the failure to reach the World Cup for the third tournament cycle in a row.
Italy missed out on a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing second in their qualification group and then losing on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their play-off final on Tuesday evening.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Players show their dejection of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
The Azzurri have not qualified for the World Cup since 2014 and have not won a knock-out game at the tournament since beating France in the final in 2006.
Gattuso was called in to replace Luciano Spalletti as head coach of the Italy national team after two games of qualification for the 2026 World Cup last summer.
According to reports from various outlets in Italy, including Sky Sport Italia, La Gazzetta dello Sport and others, Gattuso is now expected to step down from his position as CT in the imminent future.
BERGAMO – SEPTEMBER 05: Coach Gennaro Gattuso looks on prior to the National anthems prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match against Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
Buffon, who has been working with the national team set-up since August 2023, and had a large say in the decision to appoint Gattuso, is also expected to leave his position as delegation chief.
According to the initial reports, there are two clear first-choice favourites for the Italy national team head coach, however, both are currently under contract with Serie A clubs. Those managers are Antonio Conte, who has already had a stint in charge of the Nazionale, and Massimiliano Allegri, who is less than a year into his second stint in charge of Milan.
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There will still be an Italian presence at the 2026 World Cup, even if Gennaro Gattuso and the Nazionale failed to make it, as three former Azzurri players qualified as head coaches with other nations.
Which head coaches from Italy will be at the 2026 World Cup?
epa12137464 Italian Carlo Ancelotti (L) and the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), Samir Xaud, attend a press conference where Ancelotti was presented as new head coach of men’s Brazilian national soccer team, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 26 May 2025. EPA-EFE/ANDRE COELHO
Despite the shortcomings of Gattuso and his players, there are only three nations, Argentina (6), France (6), and Spain (4) that will have more head coaches at the World Cup than Italy (3).
That is because Carlo Ancelotti qualified as head coach of Brazil, Fabio Cannavaro as the head coach of Uzbekistan and Vincenzo Montella as head coach of Turkiye, who beat Kosovo in their World Cup play-off final at the same time as Bosnia vs. Italy on Tuesday evening.
TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN – MARCH 30: Fabio Cannavaro, Head Coach of Uzbekistan, reacts during the international friendly match between Uzbekistan and Venezuela on March 30, 2026 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. (Photo by Anvar Ilyasov/Getty Images)
The 48 competing teams at the 2026 World Cup will be led by head coaches from 25 different nations. Those nations include Argentina (6), France (6), Spain (4), Italy (3), Germany (3), England (2), the Netherlands (2), Australia (2), Bosnia and Herzegovina (2), Morocco (2).
Croatia, Norway, Czechia, Scotland, Switzerland, Egypt, Senegal, Cape Verde, South Korea, Japan, Iran and Mexico will all be led by head coaches from their own nations, while South Africa will be guided by the tournament’s only Belgian head coach in Hugo Broos and Canada by the only American head coach in Jesse Marsch.
Tuesday night’s elimination against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final means that there is now only one Italy player currently in Serie A that has previously featured in the World’s biggest international tournament.
Italy were beaten on penalties in Zenica on Tuesday night after being held level at 1-1 after 120 minutes of football. The Azzurri played with 10 men for 80 minutes after Alessandro Bastoni’s red card just before the end of the first half.
This is the third time in a row that Italy have fallen short at the World Cup play-off stage. As fans know all too well, the Azzurri have not qualified for the final tournament since 2014 and have not won a World Cup knock-out match since beating France in the final in 2006.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Players of Italy show their dejection of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Who is the only current Serie A player that has played for Italy at a World Cup?
This means that as things stand, there is only one Italian in Serie A that has previously played at a World Cup: Inter defender Matteo Darmian.
SASSUOLO – FEBRUARY 08: Matteo Darmian of FC Internazionale celebrates during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The now 36-year-old played the full 90 minutes in all three of Italy’s group stage matches in 2014, against England, Costa Rica and Uruguay, but Cesare Prandelli’s side did not qualify for the round of 16 after finishing the group with just one win and three points to their name.
There was one other current Serie A player in Italy’s 2014 World Cup squad, Juventus goalkeeper Mattia Perin, but he did not play in any matches at the tournament given that Gianluigi Buffon was the captain of the side.
TURIN – JANUARY 16: Mattia Perin of Juventus looks on during the Serie A TIM match between Juventus and US Sassuolo – Serie A TIM at on January 16, 2024 in Turin. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
There are five other members of Italy’s 2014 World Cup who are still active, but are not currently playing in Serie A. They are Mario Balotelli of Al-Ittifaq in the United Arab Emirates, Salvatore Sirigu of Palermo in Serie B, Ciro Immobile of Paris FC, Lorenzo Insigne of Pescara in Serie B and Marco Verratti of Al-Duhail in Qatar.
Italy’s World Cup dreams came crashing down after a penalty shoot-out defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final on Tuesday evening, but questions have been asked over an Edin Dzeko handball and a potential second red card incident in extra time.
Italy took the lead after 15 minutes thanks to a wonderful first-time finish from Fiorentina’s Moise Kean, but things took a turn for the worse when Inter defender Alessandero Bastoni wiped out Amar Memic and earned a straight red card a few minutes before half-time.
The 10-man Azzurri held on until the 79th minute before conceding, and did well to see the game through until penalties, but after misses from Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante in the first three kicks of the shoot-out and with Bosnia scoring all of their first four, Italy were eliminated at the World Cup play-off stage for the third tournament cycle in a row.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Players of Italy show their dejection of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Which refereeing decisions upset Italy against Bosnia?
The first incident in question is the handball by Dzeko in the build-up to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s 79th-minute equaliser against Italy.
A cross had come in from the right flank. Dzeko and Gianluca Mancini were tussling at the back post, and though he had made an attempt to get his head to it, the ball clearly came off the arm of the Bosnian veteran.
Gianluigi Donnarumma saved Dzeko’s attempt, but Haris Tabakovic was on hand to prod home the rebound from point-blank range.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Haris Tabakovic of Bosnia and Herzegovina scores his team’s equalizing goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia & Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
According to the IFAB laws of the game, it is an offence if a player scores a goal directly from their hand or arm, even if accidental, which means that had Donnarumma let Dzeko’s attempt go in, it would have been ruled out.
However, as Bosnia did not score directly from Dzeko’s handball, and as this was presumably considered an ‘accidental’ handball, the goal was not ruled out.
Should Bosnia have had a man sent off against Italy?
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: The referee Clèment Turpin shows the red card to Alessandro Bastoni of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Given that Bastoni was sent off in the first half for a last-man challenge, there were suggestions that Bosnia should have also been reduced to 10 men after Sassuolo’s Tariq Muharemovic brought down Marco Palestra in the 12th minute of extra-time.
Sandro Tonali slipped the young full-back in with a perfectly-weighted through ball, but the Cagliari youngster was then wiped out on the edge of the area. Muharemovic was shown a yellow card as a result.
According to the IFAB, there are four key considerations when it comes to the denial of an obvious goalscoring opportunity (DOGSO). They are: The distance between the offence and the goal, the general direction of play, the likelihood of keeping or gaining control of the ball and the location and number of defenders.
WROCLAW, POLAND – MARCH 26: Milan and Roma Referee Clement Turpin of France looks on during the UEFA EURO 2024 Play-Offs final match between Ukraine and Iceland at Tarczynski Arena on March 26, 2024 in Wroclaw, Poland. (Photo by Rafal Oleksiewicz/Getty Images)
Referee Clement Turpin was satisfied that Bastoni’s first-half deserved a red card given that he brought down Memic around 10 yards outside the penalty area, slightly to the left of centre of the goal, and that Memic would have retained possession of the ball and would have been clear through one-on-one with Donnarumma otherwise.
As for the Muharemovic challenge on Palestra, the Italy youngster was also running through on goal from a relatively central position, but it is assumed that Muharemovic was not considered the last man as midfielder Dzenis Burnic was also on the scene when the challenge came in.
It has been a horrendous few weeks for Inter and Italy defender Alessandro Bastoni, who had already cut a controversial figure after his Derby d’Italia antics in February and has since been on the receiving end of further criticism after his role in Tuesday night’s World Cup play-off final defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Why is Bastoni a divisive figure in Italian football?
It all kicked off for Bastoni during the eventful Derby d’Italia between Inter and Juventus on February 14, which ended 3-2 in favour of the Nerazzurri.
Bastoni, who was on a first-half booking in the derby, dived under the challenge of Pierre Kalulu, which resulted in his opponent being incorrectly sent off for a second bookable offence. Had the reverse decision been taken, Bastoni himself should have been shown a yellow card for simulation, which would have been his second caution of the game.
However, it was Bastoni’s passionate celebration of the decision to send Kalulu off that angered fans across Italy, not just in Turin.
Since then, Bastoni has been met by a hostile reception in a variety of grounds across Italy, and there were genuine calls from large portions of the Italy fan base for him to be dropped from Gennaro Gattuso’s squad for the World Cup play-off campaign that took place over the last week.
In the end, Bastoni kept his place in the squad and lined up in the middle of Gattuso’s back three for both the semi-final victory over Northern Ireland and the play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday.
Gianluigi Donnarumma took a poor goal kick, which was headed straight back into the Italy half, and with Amar Memic running through, Bastoni, the furthest Italy defender back, lunged in from behind and was promptly shown a straight red card.
The Azzurri were 1-0 up at the time, and had looked like they were going to see the half out with a narrow advantage until the red card was brandished in the 42nd minute.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: The referee Clèment Turpin shows the red card during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Italy held on until the 79th minute before conceding, and did well to see off the pressure during extra-time, but two early misses in the penalty shootout from Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante sent the Azzurri packing for another World Cup cycle.
How have Italy fans responded to Bastoni’s red card?
To little surprise, the responses to Bastoni’s red card in Italy’s play-off final have not been particularly positive. Many have pointed to ‘karma’ after the Derby d’Italia incident, but others have questioned the defender’s decision making, given that Memic was still not 100% guaranteed to score past Donnarumma.
“Bastoni should have had more trust in Donnarumma and let the striker through. Cost his country a huge upset,” read one tweet on X.
Similarly, another read: “He still had so much work to do to score as well. Total headloss from Bastoni.”
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy shows his dejection after the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia & Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Many reactions have focused on the potential reception that Bastoni will now receive upon his return to Italy. The Nerazzurri centre-back has been linked with a summer move away to Barcelona, and many suggest that he would be wise to push for a move away from Italy during the upcoming transfer window.
“Honestly, if you’re Bastoni how do you even go back to Italy after this? He was already getting booed all over Serie A before this,” one tweet read.
“If the Azzurri don’t get to the World Cup, I really can’t see Bastoni staying in Italy – it would be absolutely terrible for him,” another agreed.
“Bastoni better fly straight to Spain because I don’t think he could step foot in Italy again,” read another.
FLORENCE, ITALY – OCTOBER 08: Alessandro Bastoni of Italy looks on prior to the Italy training session at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on October 08, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Serie A commentator Patrick Kendrick commented: “I hope Italy doesn’t treat Bastoni like England treated Beckham in 1998,” and later added: “It will be interesting to see how Barella, Bastoni and Dimarco play at home to Roma on Sunday. For what it’s worth I think they’ll be some of the best players on the pitch & credit to them if they are. Ultimately, come that match, they’re damned if they do & damned if they don’t.”
Others feel that Bastoni was in the wrong for his slide tackle against Bosnia, but feel that he is not solely to blame for Italy’s shortcomings in World Cup qualification.
“Apart from Bastoni’s f***-up, unfortunately the CT got it all wrong. The call-ups, the formations, the substitutions, the favouritism towards players from so-called big clubs. He only brought in Palestra because he’s a phenomenon,” one supporter wrote.
The penalty shoot-out between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy on Tuesday night was not without its controversies as goalkeepers Nikola Vasilj and Gianluigi Donnarumma clashed after the first spot kicks were taken. Here’s why.
Italy, who were reduced to 10 men shortly before half-time in their World Cup play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday night, held out for a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes of action in Zenica, but missed out on a spot at the final tournament for a third cycle in a row after falling short on penalties.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Players of Italy show their dejection of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Pio Esposito missed Italy’s first, Bryan Cristante hit the crossbar from the third, and as Bosnia had hit the net with all of their first four attempts, Italy’s World Cup dreams came crashing down once again.
Why did the goalkeepers clash during Bosnia vs. Italy penalties?
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Gianluigi Donnarumma reacts after the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia & Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
After both sides had taken their first penalties, Bosnia stopper Vasilj and Italy’s Donnarumma were seen arguing behind the net, which needed two officials to step in and resulted in a yellow card being shown to Vasilj.
As was explained by SportItalia reporter Tancredi Palmeri, Donnarumma’s ‘cheat sheet’, which told him where to dive for each Bosnian penalty, was the main reason behind the clash of the two goalkeepers.
Donnarumma’s notes showed a list of 13 Bosnia and Herzegovina players, their expected placement of their penalty kicks and additional notes for Donnarumma, such as to ‘wait’ or whether or not he should dive at full stretch.
This go straight into history of World Cup.
Here the penalty taker sheet prepared for Donnarumma by Italy staff, and that Bosnia goalkeeper stole which brought to the two keepers arguing behind the goal after first penalty #BosniaItalypic.twitter.com/3zKbn3UTn2
There have been conflicting reports over the clash of the two goalkeepers during the shoot-out, though. Some reports in Italy claim that it was Vasilj who tried to interfere with Donnarumma’s notes, which would explain why it was the Italian who instigated the incident and why Vasilj was shown a yellow card, but other outlets, including Der Spiegel in Germany, suggest that it was Donnarumma who had tried to ‘steal’ Vasilj’s notes.
Italy will have to wait another four years for their next World Cup opportunity after losing on penalties away against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Tuesday night’s play-off final, but for some of the current Azzurri squad, the chances of ever featuring at the final tournament is practically over.
For the third time in a row, Italy will not feature at the World Cup finals after losing on penalties against Edin Dzeko and his Bosnia and Herzegovina teammates in Zenica on Tuesday evening. Moise Kean struck after 15 minutes, but an Alessandro Bastoni red card just before the interval made life considerably more difficult for Gennaro Gattuso’s side.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: The referee Clèment Turpin shows the red card to Alessandro Bastoni of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Haris Tabakovic levelled for the hosts in the 79th minute, which was enough to send the game to extra-time and then a penalty shootout, where Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante both missed within the first three attempts, and with Bosnia scoring all of their first four, that was that four another four years.
How old will the current Italy squad be in 2030?
Only eight of the 28-player squad that Gattuso called up for the World Cup play-off campaign will still be in their 20s by the time the 2030 World Cup rolls around: They are Goalkeepers Marco Carnesecchi and Elia Caprile, defenders Marco Palestra, Riccardo Calafiori, Giorgio Scalvini and Diego Coppola, Niccolo Pisilli in midfield and forwards Pio Esposito and Niccolo Cambiaghi.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Tarik Muharemovic of Bosnia & Herzegovina competes for the ball with Marco Palestra of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
For the likes of Leonardo Spinazzola, who will be 37 in the summer of 2030, Matteo Politano, who will be 36 and Bryan Cristante, who will be 35, the chances of ever appearing at a World Cup finals is now looking highly unlikely.
There will be question marks over the likes of Nicolo Barella, who will be 33 by the start of the 2030 World Cup, or Federico Dimarco or Manuel Locatelli, both of whom will be 32.
Goalkeepers
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy reacts after the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia & Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Gianluigi Donnarumma – 31 in 2030
Marco Carnesecchi – 29 in 2030
Alex Meret – 33 in 2030
Elia Caprile – 28 in 2030
Defenders
FLORENCE, ITALY – OCTOBER 08: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy in action during a Italy training session at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on October 08, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Marco Palestra – 25 in 2030
Alessandro Bastoni – 31 in 2030
Federico Dimarco – 32 in 2030
Leonardo Spinazzola – 37 in 2030
Alessandro Buongiorno 31 in 2030
Riccardo Calafiori – 28 in 2030
Federico Gatti – 31 in 2030
Andrea Cambiaso – 30 in 2030
Gianluca Mancini – 33 in 2030
Giorgio Scalvini – 26 in 2030
Diego Coppola – 26 in 2030
Midfielders
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 26: Sandro Tonali of Italy scores his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Manuel Locatelli – 32 in 2030
Sanro Tonali – 30 in 2030
Niccolo Pisilli – 25 in 2030
Bryan Cristante – 35 in 2030
Davide Frattesi – 30 in 2030
Nicolo Barella – 33 in 2030
Forwards
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Francesco Pio Esposito shows his dejection of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Matteo Politano – 36 in 2030
Mateo Retegui – 31 in 2030
Giacomo Raspadori – 30 in 2030
Moise Kean – 30 in 2030
Pio Esposito – 24 in 2030
Gianluca Scamacca – 31 in 2030
Nicolo Cambiaghi – 29 in 2030
* ages at the predicted start time of the 2030 World Cup, i.e. early to mid-June.
Leonardo Spinazzola says that Italy will regret their ‘three or four’ chances they had to win the game against Bosnia and Herzegovina in their World Cup play-off final, and says that he is ‘enormously’ disappointed for the Italian children who will not see Italy feature at the final tournament.
Moise Kean had given the Azzurri a 15th-minute lead, but a straight red card for centre-back Alessandro Bastoni just before half-time made life considerably more difficult for Gennaro Gattuso’s side. Haris Tabaković netted the equaliser in the 79th minute.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Haris Tabakovic of Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrates with his teammates after scoring his team’s equalizing goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia & Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Though they did well to hold on for penalties, Sandro Tonali was the only Italy player to succeed from the spot. Pio Esposito missed the first, Bryan Cristante hit the crossbar from the third, and with Bosnia scoring all of their first four, that was that for another four years.
“After 90 minutes down to 10 men, we dragged this to penalties with our teeth, we had three or four chances to win it,” Spinazzola told RAI Sport after full-time.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Moise Kean reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
“It’s just so enormously disappointing for us, for our families, for all the Italian children who won’t see Italy at a World Cup again.
“It’s so sad to see the young players crying, but they will have a better future.”
Italy felt that Bosnia should have also been reduced to 10 men when Sassuolo’s Tarik Muharemovic slid in for a last-ditch challenge on Marco Palestra in extra-time.
“Incidents decide the game, we knew it would be very difficult when down to 10 men, but we still created several chances,” Spinazzola said.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: The referee Clèment Turpin shows the red card to Alessandro Bastoni of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
“There’s no point talking about that now, there is this enormous disappointment.
“It was certainly my last chance of getting to a World Cup, but I feel bad for all of Italy.”
It was all going so smoothly for the Italy national team in their World Cup play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the Azzurri were reduced to 10 men just before the interval after a clumsy last-ditch challenge from Alessandro Bastoni.
Bosnia are hosting Italy at the Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica as the two nations do battle for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Italy reduced to 10 men against Bosnia and Herzegovina after Bastoni challenge
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: The referee Clèment Turpin shows the red card to Alessandro Bastoni of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia & Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
After a troubling first-half in their play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland on Thursday, Italy looked to have put their ghosts behind them against Bosnia as Kean struck with a brilliant first-time finish to send Gennaro Gattuso’s side into a 15th-minute lead.
Italy looked like they were on their way to seeing the half out at 1-0, but they were reduced to 10 men in the 42nd minute when Bastoni lunged in for a last-man challenge on Bosnia’s Amar Memic.
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s goal-kick was poor, and headed straight back into the Italy half, where Memic looked to be racing in on goal, albeit to the left of the centre of the pitch. Bastoni, the furthest Italy defender back, slid in and was promptly sent off.
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – SEPTEMBER 09: Alessandro Bastoni of Italy in action during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A2 match between Israel and Italy at Bozsik Stadion on September 09, 2024 in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Bastoni became the first Italy player to be sent off in a World Cup qualifier for almost a decade, dating back to Giorgio Chiellini’s red against Israel on September 5, 2016.
The Inter centre-back had already been a divisive figure in Italy in the weeks leading up to the World Cup play-off campaign as a result of his antics during the Derby d’Italia between the Nerazzurri and Juventus in February.
The Italy international was dived, which resulted in the wrongful sending off of Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, and then proceeded to passionately celebrate the decision to send the opponent off. This led to widespread criticism, not just from Juventus supporters, and there were calls from some for Bastoni to be dropped from the Italy squad altogether.
The Nerazzurri defender has also been linked with a potential summer move to Barcelona once the 2025-26 season comes to an end.
Moise Kean delivered the first blow in the World Cup play-off final between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy in Zenica on Thursday night, applying a wonderful first-time finish to give the Azzurri a significant 1-0 advantage away from home.
Bosnia and Italy are battling it out for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica on Thursday evening.
Kean sends Italy 1-0 up against Bosnia and Herzegovina
BERGAMO – MARCH 26: Moise Kean celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match against Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It took Kean just 15 minutes to find the back of the net against Bosnia on Thursday night. Strike partner Mateo Retegui chased down opposition goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, forcing him to play the ball straight into the feet of Nicolo Barella, who tapped it square to Kean, who applied a wonderful first-time finish from the edge of the area to send Italy 1-0 up.
Kean also matched an Italy national team record with his strike in Zenica: He became only the fourth player to score in six consecutive national team appearances after Adolfo Balonceri in 1928, Gigi Riva in 1969 and Roberto Bettega in 1977.
The Fiorentina striker has netted eight times from his last six outings with the Italy national team.
In a worryingly bad omen for the Italy national team, the same referee that took charge of the infamous 2022 World Cup play-off semi-final defeat against North Macedonia will be tasked with officiating Tuesday’s play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Why is the refereeing appointment for Bosnia play-off not a good sign for Italy?
Clement Turpin has been chosen as the referee for Italy’s play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which kicks off at 19.45 BST on Tuesday evening. Turpin will be joined by assistants Nicolas Dagos and Benjamin Pages and fourth official Jose Maria Sanchez from Spain. Jerom Brisard and Willy Delajod will be the Video Assistant Referees.
Alarmingly for the Azzurri, Turpin was also chosen as the referee for the infamous 1-0 loss against North Macedonia in the 2022 World Cup play-off semi-final, which cost Roberto Mancini and his players, who were the reigning European champions at the time, a spot at the final tournament later that year.
That game ended in heartbreak for Italy, as former Palermo striker Alesandar Trajkovski netted in the 92nd minute to prevent the Azzurri from qualifying for the World Cup for the second cycle in a row.
PALERMO – MARCH 24: Domenico Berardi of Italy looks dejected during the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier knockout round play-off match between Italy and North Macedonia at Renzo Barbera Stadium in Palermo. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Italy have not qualified for the final World Cup tournament for 12 years now, dating back to the 2014 tournament in Brazil. They have not featured in a knock-out game at the World Cup in 20 years, since beating France in the final to claim the trophy back in 2006.
This time around, Gennaro Gattuso and his squad will have to travel to a currently frozen-over Zenica to take on Bosnia and Herzegovina for a spot at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
BERGAMO – MARCH 26: Gennaro Gattuso of Italy looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nazional finished second behind Norway in their World Cup qualifying group, which condemned them to the play-offs for the third tournament cycle in a row. They have since beaten Northern Ireland by two goals to nil thanks to second-half strikes from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean in Thursday’s evening’s play-off semi-final in Bergamo.
Bosnia, meanwhile, eliminated Wales on penalties in Cardiff in order to qualify.
Guglielmo Vicario does not deny the obvious pressure on the Italy national team ahead of tonight’s World Cup play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina, but says that his colleagues seem ‘more ready’ after their 2-0 victory against Northern Ireland in Bergamo.
Bosnia will host Italy at the Bilino Polje Stadium in the city of Zenica for tonight’s play-off final, which kicks off at 19.45 BST (20.45 CET).
The winner will be decided after 90 minutes, or through extra time and even a penalty shoot-out if needed. Whoever goes through will be placed in World Cup group B with Canada, Switzerland and Qatar.
Vicario previews Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Italy: ‘There is pressure’
The Azzurri beat Northern Ireland 2-0 in the semi-final with goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean, so despite suggestions Francesco Pio Esposito or Marco Palestra could step in, the coach sticks with the same starting XI that played in Bergamo on Thursday.
Bosnia and Herzegovina, meanwhile, got the better of Wales in the semi-final after a 1-1 draw and penalty shoot-out, with ex-Roma, Inter and Fiorentina striker Edin Dzeko netting the equaliser.
The pressure is all on Italy though, having missed out on the World Cup in both 2018 and 2022 by losing the play-offs.
“The pressure is still there,” Vicario, who is not officially part of the squad, but has travelled with the team regardless, told Vivo Azzurro TV ahead of kick-off.
“But maybe subconsciously we’ve come in a little more ready and I hope a little more relaxed after the first half in Bergamo. I think we can’t afford to lose our concentration today, it’s too important.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 26: Sandro Tonali of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Mateo Retegui and Moise Kean during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I’ve seen the boys looking well, fired up, we all know about the importance of this game.”
Vicario also praised the spirit and togetherness that CT Gennaro Gattuso has brought to the Nazionale following his appointment last summer.
“Our work with the coach has been going on for months. He’s brought back the enthusiasm and a spirit of belonging. In the end, it’s what happens on the pitch that counts, not the proclamations.”
And what does Vicario expect from Bosnia and Herzegovina this evening?
CARDIFF, WALES – MARCH 26: Edin Dzeko of Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Kerim Alajbegovic during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-off match between Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina at Cardiff City Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
“The atmosphere will lead to them being aggressive initially, out of possession as well. “There’ll be phases of patience and counter attacking. Demirovic makes these great runs when they’re pressing. It’s a team that has quality, international level players, a lot of legs and running. The duels will be decisive.
Vicario also dismissed any potential concerns about the playing surface in Zenica.
“It doesn’t seem to be in bad condition to me, the ball moves without major problems. I think our best qualities will come out.”
The appointment of Italian head coach Roberto De Zerbi as the new head coach of Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur has been met with criticism from various supporters’ groups, who feel that the former Marseille and Brighton tactician will ‘create a divide among supporters at a time when we all need to be pulling together to back the team’.
De Zerbi has put pen to paper on a five-year deal that will run until the summer of 2031, and will have seven matches of the 2025-26 Premier League season to steer Spurs clear of relegation. The North Londoners are currently in 17th, one point and one position above West Ham in the drop zone.
Tottenham supporters’ groups denounce De Zerbi appointment
The decision to appoint De Zerbi has drawn criticism from some supporters for various reasons.
Some have questioned the decision to hand a five-year contract to a head coach who has never previously lasted more than two full seasons in a managerial position. Others have criticised his previous comments defending Marseille forward Mason Greenwood, who was charged with attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and controlling and coercive behaviour in 2022. Those charges were then dropped in 2023.
The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust have released a statement highlighting the decision to appoint De Zerbi despite the club’s previous commitment to ‘challenging instances of violence against women and girls’, and have also questioned the decision to appoint a ‘divisive’ head coach at a time when the team needs unity from its supporters.
“We note the Club’s announcement of the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi to the Manager role,” a statement from the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust read.
“While we recognise the limited pool of managers with recent Premier League experience, and the need to act with urgency as Spurs face the prospect of relegation, this appointment raises serious and far-reaching concerns, and many fans have been in touch with us to urge us to communicate the strength of feeling. We raised these concerns directly with the Club prior to its announcement.
“The Club has previously committed to challenging instances of violence against women and girls and acting with integrity and upholding its values when faced with any incidents.
“De Zerbi’s comments about Mason Greenwood were unnecessary, ill-judged, and deeply offensive to a significant number of supporters and, without doubt, will have left victims of male violence alarmed. We believe these statements, left unchecked, will create a divide among supporters at a time when we all need to be pulling together to back the team. It is concerning that the Club would put us in this position right when the team needs fans the most. Fans are rallying behind the “All Together, Always” initiative, and this appointment places heavy strain on that unity. If those remarks reflect his genuine views, they cast a troubling shadow over the values of the Club we love.
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Mason Greenwood of Olymquique de Marseille gestures during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“The Club must reassert its commitment to the values that fans hold dear—chief among them equality, respect, and integrity. Any perceived sympathy toward alleged perpetrators of physical or sexual violence against women fundamentally undermines trust in the custodianship of this Club.
“With this appointment, communications from the Club and from Mr De Zerbi must clearly and unequivocally reaffirm these values. Furthermore, those words must be backed by meaningful action, including visible and sustained support for women’s charities and organisations working to combat violence against women.
“Our preference would have been for a short-term appointment of an individual or individuals who understand the Club and can lead the players in the seven battles to come. There would then have been an opportunity in the summer to attract a wide range of potential applicants with a track record of success in inspiring fans and players: candidates who could lead and develop sustained success for the team, for seasons to come. The Club has chosen otherwise. We will continue to support efforts to get behind the team and play our part in preserving the Club’s Premier League status but it is understandable that many fans will do so with a heavy heart.
MARSEILLE, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 25: Roberto De Zerbi, head coach of Olympique de Marseille looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Olympique de Marseille and Newcastle United FC at Stade de Marseille on November 25, 2025 in Marseille, France. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
“Our Five Principles for Spurs ownership include Leading with Integrity and Championing Ethical Standards. At present, supporters rate performance in this area at just 2.2 out of 10. This decision risks further eroding confidence unless addressed with clarity, humility, and decisive action.
“We fully understand that the immediate priority is to avoid relegation. However, this situation is the result of prolonged strategic failings. THST have warned for years that the Club was heading in this direction, and the lack of timely, sound decision-making has now left options severely compromised.
“It will take significant effort for many fans to restore their faith in the Club’s leadership. That process must begin with transparency, accountability and a renewed commitment to the principles that define Tottenham Hotspur.”
Women of the Lane, Tottenham’s official supporters’ group for women and non-binary supporters, have also been publicly critical of the decision to appoint De Zerbi.
Prior to his appointment, Women of the Lane released a statement that read: “De Zerbi has publicly defended Mason Greenwood in a way that downplays the seriousness of male violence against women and girls. That raises serious questions about judgement and leadership.
BRADFORD, ENGLAND – AUGUST 3: Roberto De Zerbi manager of Olympique Marseille during the pre-season friendly match between Sunderland and Olympique Marseille at University of Bradford Stadium on August 3, 2024 in Bradford, England. (Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images)
“Clubs signal their values through the decisions they make. Who they appoint matters. The manager sets the tone, every day, for what is expected, what is tolerated, and how people are treated. At a time when Spurs needs to rebuild, that culture matters as much as anything on the pitch.
“For many in our community, this is difficult to reconcile with the club’s stated commitments to respect, safety and inclusion. This is not an appointment Tottenham Hotspur should make. It introduced unnecessary cultural risk without a clear, proven track record to justify it.
Some questions were asked when Brentford right-back Michael Kayode was not included in the Italy national team squad for the crucial World Cup play-off campaign, but the Premier League ace was named as a starter for the U21s’ European Championship qualifier against Sweden on Tuesday after receiving a late call-up to Silvio Baldini’s side. Here’s why there has been some confusion over the Fiorentina full-back’s eligibility.
Why is Kayode playing with Italy’s U21s and not with the senior side?
Kayode is having a stellar season on a personal and collective level in the Premier League with Brentford this term, sitting in seventh place and pushing for a spot in Europe despite being tipped for relegation by many at the beginning of the 2025-26 campaign.
Despite his individual form, Kayode was not included in Gennaro Gattuso’s 28-man Italy squad for the World Cup play-offs that have been taking place this week and was not originally named in the U21s squad either.
Kayode was later called up to Baldini’s U21 side and went on to appear as a half-time substitute for Thursday night’s 4-0 victory over North Macedonia in qualification for the U21 European Championship. He was also named as a starter for Tuesday’s qualifier against Sweden’s U21s.
EMPOLI, ITALY – MARCH 26: Jeff Ekhator of Italy U21 celebrates after scoring the team’s third goal with Michael Kayode and Luca Kaleosho during the UEFA Under 21 EURO Qualifier match between Italy U21 and North Macedonia U21 at Stadio Carlo Castellani on March 26, 2026 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Italy U21s head coach Baldini has recently confirmed that the reason for the delay in Kayode’s call-up was due to the fact that he needed to report for additional medical check-ups in Rome and hinted that those tests might have been on his heart.
Baldini spoke about ‘regulations’ that are ‘stricter’ in Italy compared to England, which is the case for issues relating to the heart, and is the reason why Edoardo Bove is allowed to play for Watford in the EFL Championship, but not in Serie A or Serie B.
“He was called up in September, but he didn’t have eligibility because there are much stricter regulations in Italy compared to England,” Baldini explained in a recent press conference.
“He couldn’t play with us, otherwise, he always would have been there. And now he arrived late because he went to Rome to undergo some examinations on Monday, and yesterday he obtained eligibility.
“I don’t understand why we shouldn’t have called him up, given that he has also been a European U19 champion in the past.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – JANUARY 04: Michael Kayode of Brentford during the Premier League match between Everton and Brentford at Hill Dickinson Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Kayode has since received the all-clear after his additional medical checks in Rome, but given that his eligibility was not 100% guaranteed, this might explain why Gattuso decided against giving him his first ever call-up to the senior side, particularly ahead of such a crucial run of fixtures.
Gennaro Gattuso and his Italy players will be hoping to avoid any close calls in this evening’s World Cup play-off final away against Bosnia and Herzegovina, as goal-line technology will not be in use at the Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica. Here’s why.
Why is there no goal-line technology for Bosnia vs. Italy?
The Azzurri are one game away from sealing a spot at the World Cup for the first time since 2014, but must overcome Bosnia and Herzegovina teammates in tonight’s play-off final in Zenica, kicking off at 19.45 BST.
The Bilino Polje Stadium in the city of Zenica is operating at a reduced capacity of due to crowd troubles during Bosnia’s World Cup qualifier against Romania back in November. Italy have received an allocation of 500 tickets.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – OCTOBER 11: General view of the of a stadium Bilino Polje prior to the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A3 match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Germany at on October 11, 2024 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
There will also be no goal-line technology in use for tonight’s play-off final between Bosnia and Italy. Goal-line technology is not mandatory, and its use depends on the decisions of the organising federation.
Goal-line technology is not typically used at the Bilino Polje Stadium, and that will also be the case when Italy take on Bosnia this evening.
Tottenham Hotspur have officially announced the appointment of Italian head coach Roberto as head coach of the men’s first team ‘on a long-term contract, subject to work permit’.
De Zerbi is called in to replace former Juventus head coach Igor Tudor in North London and will be tasked with steering Tottenham clear of relegation from the Premier League with seven games of the 2025-26 season left to go.
Tottenham currently find themselves in 17th place in the Premier League table, just one point and one position away from the drop zone.
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Robert De Zerbi, Head Coach of Olympique de Marseille, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
De Zerbi’s first match in charge of his new club will come away against Sunderland at 14.00 BST on April 12.
Reports indicate that De Zerbi has put pen to paper on a five-year contract that will run until the summer of 2031. This has led to questioning from some Tottenham supporters given that the Italian has never stayed in the same managerial position for more than two full seasons.
This will be De Zerbi’s second job in the Premier League following his tenure with Brighton between September 2022 and June 2024, during which time he led the Seagulls to a seventh-place finish in the Premier League, which is the club’s highest-ever finish and also brought their first ever qualification for the Europa League.
Reports in Italy indicate that Italy’s 2006 World Cup winner Alessandro Nesta will be part of De Zerbi’s coaching staff at Tottenham, although this has not yet been officially confirmed by the club.
What De Zerbi said about Tottenham appointment
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Robert De Zerbi, Head Coach of Olympique de Marseille, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“I am delighted to be joining this fantastic football club, which is one of the biggest and most prestigious in the world,” De Zerbi said in a statement on the club website.
“In all my discussions with the Club’s leadership, their ambition for the future has been clear – to build a team capable of reaching great achievements, and to do that playing a style of football that excites and inspires our supporters. I am here because I believe in that ambition and have signed a long-term contract to give everything to deliver it.
“Our short-term priority is to climb the Premier League table, which will be the complete focus until the final whistle of the last game of the season. I’m looking forward to getting out on the training pitch and working with these players to achieve that.”
Roberto De Zerbi (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)
Sporting director Johan Lange added: “Roberto was our number one target for the summer and we are very pleased to be able to bring him in now.
“He is one of the most creative and forward-thinking coaches in world football, and brings with him a wealth of experience at the highest level, including in the Premier League.”
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as our new Men’s Head Coach on a long-term contract, subject to work permit.
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