Gennaro Gattuso has urged composure and clarity as the Italy national football team prepare for their World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland national football team on Thursday.

The Italy head coach called on his players to put aside the pressure of past disappointments, with memories of failed qualification campaigns in 2018 and 2022 still lingering.

Italy are aiming to avoid missing out on a third consecutive World Cup, having managed just one win at the tournament since their 2006 triumph — a 2-1 group-stage victory over England in 2014.

Speaking at the national team’s Coverciano training base, Gattuso said the squad must be allowed to feel “lighter” mentally heading into the decisive clash.

“Italy didn’t play in the last two World Cups, but there is no need to suffocate them,” he explained. “These are players who have won the Euros and played in Champions League finals. They are used to these matches.”

He added that there can be no excuses going forward, insisting the focus must remain fully on Thursday’s game.

“We must have the right mentality and serenity. We respect the opponents, but we must stay clear-headed and recognise the danger,” Gattuso said.

Should they overcome Northern Ireland national football team, Italy will face either Wales national football team or Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team in the play-off final on March 31, with a place at the tournament in North America on the line.

Gennaro Gattuso also confirmed that Federico Chiesa has left the national team camp.

“He had some physical problems, and we decided it was better for him to return,” Gattuso explained. “When I was told he wasn’t feeling ready, I made the decision. If a player wants to go home, it’s right to let him do so.”

Gattuso also revealed his decision to host the match at the 23,000-capacity Stadio di Bergamo rather than the San Siro, citing concerns over the pressure of a larger venue.

“At a stadium like San Siro with 60,000 fans, a few misplaced passes could lead to boos,” he said. “I want a real cauldron atmosphere. Thursday is the only focus — everything else belongs to the past.”