​Only one other nation has won more World Cups than Italy, and only two have appeared in more finals. But as the rest of the world has been captivated by football’s most prestigious international tournament going on in North America this summer, Azzurri fans have been excluded again, possibly taking a quick glance at the results to see which team has taken Italy’s place at the top table.It is a painful reminder that Italy has not kicked a ball at a World Cup finals since losing to Uruguay in the last game of the group stage of the 2014 finals in Brazil. Three tournaments have now gone by without Azzurri representation. Ironically, in the meantime, Italy set the record for the longest unbeaten run in competitive men’s football. But even with continental success, an absence on the global stage still hurts.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementSome of the best Italian players have been enjoying – or enduring – an extra-long holiday this summer, as their club teammates have strived to lift the most important trophy in the game. There are no easy passes in world football, and a successful past does not guarantee qualification for a World Cup. But a team like Italy should be playing at this summer’s finals. How can the Azzurri ensure that they can challenge again?ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Players of Italy show their dejection of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)Before we go any further, it should be said that Italy has simply not been good enough to qualify for a World Cup in the last 12 years. Even with an expanded format that allowed 48 nations to go to North America, the Azzurri failed to do enough to either win their group or navigate what seemed a relatively straightforward playoff route.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIt could be argued that Italy was unlucky to be grouped with a resurgent Norway that has proved just how powerful it is at this year’s finals. It is also unfortunate that the new qualification system allowed only the group winner to advance. But failing to get past both Northern Ireland and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the playoffs showed that the current Italy team is just not good enough.One of the most dispiriting parts of watching Italy’s failures over the last few years has been the team’s inability to deal with opponents who seem to have adapted their style of play in ways the Azzurri haven’t. Tactical trends come and go, but Italy seem to be stuck relying on what has worked in the past.MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)Adverti