From World champions to coaches: Italy’s 2006 heroes face mixed fortunes

Italy's World Cup-winning heroes of 2006 have faced mixed fortunes since transitioning from the pitch to the sidelines. While some, like Fabio Grosso and Daniele De Rossi, have struggled, others such as Gennaro Gattuso and Filippo Inzaghi have excelled. La Gazzetta dello Sport explores the results of these former champions who have taken up coaching roles.

Grosso, the man who scored the crucial penalty in the 2006 Final against France, was sacked by Fiorentina after three losses in just three Serie A matches. De Rossi, Genoa's current coach, also endured a poor start with three consecutive losses. The duo combined six defeats in six matches, a significant blow to both Fiorentina and Genoa.

Despite these setbacks, Gattuso and Inzaghi have achieved success. Gattuso, who missed the 2006 World Cup with Italy, is leading Lazio to the top of Serie A alongside Inter and Roma. Palermo, coached by Inzaghi, is leading Serie B with nine points, two ahead of Mantova, Sud Tirol, and Ascoli. The story highlights that being a World Cup victor does not guarantee success on the coaching bench; each individual's journey is unique and filled with ups and downs.