FIGC president calls for unity like Euro 2021 triumph, while offering optimism on Tonali’s fitness
With one of the most decisive weeks in recent Italian soccer history approaching, Gabriele Gravina is calling on the entire country to stand behind the national team.
Speaking ahead of Italy’s World Cup playoff against Northern Ireland national football team, the FIGC president drew a direct comparison to the emotional wave that carried the Azzurri to victory at UEFA Euro 2020.
Back then, Italy transformed from a “normal team” into something special, fueled by a collective sense of pride and belonging. Gravina believes that same energy is needed again—perhaps even more urgently.
His message was clear: the Azzurri need the push of an entire nation to reach the 2026 World Cup, “even if it means swimming to America.”
Optimism Around Tonali
Gravina also addressed concerns surrounding Sandro Tonali, whose recent injury scare had raised alarms inside the national team camp.
After speaking directly with the midfielder, along with head coach Gennaro Gattuso and medical staff, the FIGC president expressed cautious optimism.
Tonali appeared more relaxed compared to the immediate aftermath of his injury, and medical tests have provided reassuring signs. While the situation is still being monitored closely in collaboration with Newcastle United, there is growing confidence that he will be available.
Pressure, Emotion, and Belief
Gravina didn’t hide the emotional weight of the moment.
Italy is facing the real possibility of missing a third consecutive World Cup—a scenario that would represent a historic low for one of the sport’s most decorated nations. That tension is palpable, but the federation president insists it should be channeled into positive energy.
He plans to stay close to the squad throughout the buildup, reinforcing a simple message: face the moment together, embrace the emotions, and trust that the reward could be extraordinary.
The early signs of support are already there. Tickets for the playoff match sold out within an hour—an unprecedented response that suggests belief is still alive among Italian fans.
Now, Gravina hopes that belief will translate into the same powerful momentum that once carried Italy to continental glory.
