Italy will host Israel in Group I of the 2026 World Cup European qualifiers. Coach Gennaro Gattuso expressed his delight with the performance and unity shown by his players and expressed his satisfaction at the team's growth.

Italy defeated Estonia 3-1 in their last qualifying match, thanks to goals from Kean, Retegui, and Pio Esposito. With four consecutive wins, Italy currently sits second in Group I with 12 points.

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso said: "I appreciate these players more and more. Their work ethic and unity have moved me. We know that the team is in a journey where we cannot make mistakes, but I like the way the team is growing."

"Pio Esposito is a very talented and simple person who moves with the agility of a midfielder and reads the game with ease. Some players are able to make a big difference in the crucial moments of a match over 95 minutes."

Gattuso continued, "There are many people who are willing to pay to be in this position, but I have always regarded this as a dream. I think of great coaches like Marcello Lippi and Trapattoni, who would have thought that I would get an opportunity like this. I have worked with many people here for many years, so it feels like home."

In addition, Italian defender Gianluca Mancini said in an interview, "Yes, for us every game must be fought like a final. This sentence is especially applicable when wearing this jersey. This is an important game and the opponent is very strong. We saw their strength in the first leg and we know how to deal with it."

As for whether Italy will only be able to qualify for the World Cup through the playoffs, Gianluca Mancini said, "We won't talk about it until the probability is no longer changeable. I don't think I'm better than anyone else, but every game must be won through hard work and sweat."

"We can't think too far ahead, we have to focus on ourselves and what we have built with the manager and produce some important results."