Italy Absent, Three Coaches from Pizza Country Lead Teams at 2026 World Cup
Source: Wikimedia
The absence of the Italian National Team from the 2026 World Cup has reopened old wounds that never fully healed. Yet beyond this failure, Italy's shadow still looms—not through players, but through three coaches on the sidelines.
Gli Azzurri extended their World Cup drought after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in the playoff final.
This defeat confirms Italy's third consecutive absence from the most prestigious tournament in World Football, a bitter reality for a nation with such rich history in the sport.
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Still, Italy's story hasn't vanished entirely from the global stage. Its influence persists through three coaches from the land of pizza at the 2026 World Cup, each leading different nations with distinct ambitions.
Carlo Ancelotti has taken charge of Brazil's national team. This marks the first international role for the five-time Champions League winner after over three decades managing clubs.
As a coach with elite trophies to his name, Ancelotti arrives with immense expectations. He continues Brazil's tradition as the only nation to feature in every World Cup, guiding the Samba squad through qualifiers.
Under his stewardship, fans wonder if his tactical brilliance will translate to the national stage.
Vincenzo Montella brings a distinct touch to Turkey's national team. The former striker, famed for his iconic goal celebrations, successfully ended Turkey's 22-year World Cup wait since 2002.
Under his guidance, Turkey has emerged as a cohesive unit blending local talent and European stars. Players like Arda Güler symbolize a new generation ready for the world stage.
Next is Fabio Cannavaro, the legend who lifted the World Cup Trophy in 2006.
Today, he leads Uzbekistan's national team as Head Coach, guiding them to their historic first World Cup appearance as an independent nation.
Cannavaro built upon existing foundations while making significant contributions. In six friendlies, Uzbekistan secured five victories with just one defeat—a positive sign ahead of the tournament.
Though absent as a team, Italy's Football DNA endures. From tactics to playing philosophy, that legacy now spans continents. The Italian touch survives, even without Gli Azzurri at the 2026 World Cup.
