At international level, he represented the Italy national football team, and was a member of the Italian squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

[4] Later, he started a managing career at international level, coaching Ghana for two years (1998–2000),[8] and then being assistant of Cesare Maldini in Paraguay's appearance at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

[11] His spell at The Red and Blacks lasted for only three months, during which he led the national team in only two matches: the first was a 1–1 draw against Switzerland and the second was the 4–1 loss to Russia.

[10] In November 2002, he asked for his resign via a letter directed to Albanian Football Association, citing the pressure from the local media as the main reason of his decision.

[10] On 30 August 2010 it was revealed that Dossena had agreed a two-year contract with Ethiopian champions Saint George FC.