"I'm already a bit far away [with his residence in Marbella, Spain], I'll go even further. The consequence is that I'm aware of it. I've said it before, it is a dream to be here, and it's true. There were people with more experience than me, with more experience, and that's why I took this call with great responsibility. I have to thank the Federation, it's president [Gabriele Gravina], and [head of Italy's delegation Gianluigi] Buffon."
"I didn't think I'd lead the team to 16 goals, but the credit goes to the players. I have little credit. We need to continue on this path. Yes, we work so hard and we sleep so little, but we do this, too, because when the victories come, it feels very good."
Italy guaranteed themselves at least a spot in the play-offs after defeating Group I opponents Israel 3-0. Italy remain three points behind group leaders Norway and will face Norway in the final qualifying fixture, with Norway holding a vastly superior goal difference. The 2006 champions failed to qualify for the last two World Cup finals after losing in the play-offs on both occasions. Gennaro Gattuso expressed determination to reach the 2026 World Cup and said he will take credit if he achieves qualification or will go and live far away from Italy if he fails. He thanked the Federation, its president Gabriele Gravina and Gianluigi Buffon, credited the players for scoring 16 goals, and emphasized continued hard work and sacrifice.
Read at Soccer News
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