Gennaro Gattuso: Elegance and heart to lead Valencia CF’s squad

Character, strength and grit. During his playing career, Gennaro Gattuso embodied values  like his on-field bravery which  made him an icon in world football. He has carried over these qualities to his coaching style, he is a leader that boast the passion as his trademark with the ball at the heart of his coaching style and looks to enjoy success at Mestalla with Valencia CF.

Gattuso began his coaching career in 2013 at FC Sion, as player-coach. Later, after hanging up his boots permanently, he took over at Palermo FC in Italy and OFI Crete in Greece. His first success came in 2015, when he achieved promotion to Italy's Serie B with AC Pisa.

In 2017 he returned to AC Milan -the scene of glory as a player- and soon took over the reins of the Rossoneri's first team.His first trophy in his homeland -the Coppa Italia- came at SSC Napoli.

Although renowned for his hard-hitting playing style, his coaching philosophy has many differences: The new Valencia CF coach wants his teams to be protagonists, to have the ball and be aggressive in search of goals.

His leadership ability has turned teams around and created great unity. When he became coach of AC Milan he reinvigorated the team in just half a season, taking the team from mid-table to fighting for Champions League qualification until the last matchday. At SSC Napoli he caused a similar effect and led the side to Coppa Italia glory against the all-powerful Juventus.

Gattuso is also renowned for his social commitment, especially in his native Calabria. In 2003 he created the Forza Ragazzi Onlus Foundation, to help less fortunate teenagers in the region.