But he comes with a the reputation of being Italy's most capped international (112) and captain of the 1982 World Cup-winning team.
Not that he has been above criticism. Usually calm and composed, Zoff stormed away from reporters after the Belarus draw that saw them sneak through.
After the qualifiers, Italy contrived to lose a friendly to Belgium, their second opponents in Euro 2000.
Ultimately, though, he will be judged on Italy's progress in the tournament they won in 1968, not the qualifiers.
His tactical blueprint for the national side is the same as just about every outfit he has coached - perhaps a little over-cautious at times, but ordered and well balanced.
Coached Juventus (1988-1990) and Lazio (1990-94) before rising a couple of flights of stairs at Lazio to become club president. He succeeded Cesare Maldini as national coach after France 98.