The Italians will likely have to earn their place through a play-off

Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has admitted he would "go and live far away" if the Azzurri fail to qualify for the 2026 World Cup - a third consecutive absence from football's biggest stage.

The 47-year-old took charge of the national team in June and has overseen a dramatic turnaround in their qualification campaign.

Under his leadership, Italy have won four matches in a row, the latest being a convincing 3-0 victory over Israel that confirmed their place in the UEFA play-off round for the upcoming tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

"I'll take credit if I manage to achieve the goal, otherwise I'll go and live far away from Italy," Gattuso said.

"I'm already a bit far away [with his residence in Marbella, Spain], I'll go even farther. The consequence is that, I'm aware of it."

Italy haven't appeared at a World Cup since 2014 - a staggering absence for a nation that has lifted the trophy four times.

Now, sitting three points behind Group I leaders Norway, Gattuso's side face a decisive double-header next month. They are away to Moldova on November 13, before hosting Norway three days later in their final group match.

Despite the enormous pressure surrounding the role, Gattuso said he remains grateful for the opportunity to manage his country.